Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months back, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, fear, and uncertainty about what lay ahead. I was on the verge of starting my Materials Science and Engineering degree as a first-year student. Venturing into the unknown was not something my previously shy and reserved self was used to. Looking back now, I recognize a year filled with personal development, obstacles, and a lot of enjoyment! But what insights has this year provided, and what is my current situation?
One of the first and most frightening challenges was establishing friendships. This is undoubtedly one of the more daunting aspects of commencing university, and if you are a potential student reading this, it may be a significant worry for you. On my first day settling into my accommodation, just days before the term kicked off, I spent the whole day retreating in my room, too daunted to venture out and meet others. However, today, I can proudly state that I’ve made some of the best friends here at university and in my program. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, and it all began with casual conversations with others in similar situations. So, what did I discover? I learned that taking a bold step at the beginning of the year is always advantageous. If you don’t feel prepared or at ease, don’t fret! There will be numerous ice-breaker events designed to help you connect with others. I also found that being authentic is essential. With so many diverse people throughout the course and university, you’re sure to find like-minded individuals.
Another hurdle was the workload and complexity of the material. There was a considerable jump from A-levels, and in some respects, an even larger transition from the first term to the second. Being thrust into such an environment can be challenging for your self-esteem; you might observe others studying and feel inadequate. A few factors helped me navigate that feeling, one being the reminder that everyone is in the same position. If you don’t grasp something, I can nearly assure you that others don’t either. So, don’t hesitate to seek assistance. This could be the most vital lesson to absorb in the first year. Reach out to your classmates and the faculty!
This leads me to my next point. The staff in Materials are exceptional. They genuinely want you to thrive and understand the challenges students encounter. They resonate with us and maintain open lines of communication throughout the year regarding our concerns. I didn’t fully leverage the pastoral support until the end of the year, but I wish I had utilized it earlier. I mentioned taking leaps previously – I took one at the start of the year by becoming a year well-being representative. This position enabled me to connect with the staff, which is incredibly beneficial. There are numerous ways to engage with staff, and this is one of the best actions you can take for yourself! My primary takeaway from this facet of university is to capitalize on the support available. You can never have too much help!
Ultimately, this year has enlightened me that feelings of anxiety, both prior to and during university, are frequently unwarranted and can be eased with the various support systems provided by faculty and fellow students. It has demonstrated that I am never alone and taught me how to find joy amidst stressors such as exams and deadlines.