By Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, dread, and uncertainty regarding the future. I was on the verge of commencing my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Diving into the unfamiliar wasn’t something my formerly shy and reserved nature was used to. In hindsight, I recognize a year full of personal development, obstacles, and enjoyment! But what insights have I gained, and where do I stand now?
One of the first and most intimidating hurdles was forming friendships. This is frequently one of the most daunting elements of starting university, and if you’re considering enrolling, it might be a significant worry for you. On my initial day settling into my residence, a few days prior to the start of classes, I spent the whole day secluded in my room, too afraid to venture out and interact with others. Now, reflecting on my journey, I can assertively say I’ve made some of the closest friends I’ve ever encountered at this university and within this program. I’ve built a second family here at Imperial, and it all initiated with casual conversations with people facing similar circumstances. So, what did I discover? I discovered that making a bold move at the beginning of the year is always worthwhile. If you don’t feel prepared or at ease, don’t fret! There will be countless ice-breaker opportunities and events designed to facilitate connections with others. I also figured out that if there’s one thing to embody, it’s authenticity. With such a wide array of individuals throughout the course and university, you’re certain to encounter like-minded people.
Another hurdle was the intensity and complexity of the workload. There was clearly a significant increase compared to A-levels, and in certain respects, an even larger jump from the first to the second term. Being thrust into such an environment can be detrimental to your self-esteem; you might observe others studying and feel insufficient. A few strategies helped me conquer that sensation, one being the reminder that everyone is dealing with similar challenges. If something isn’t clear to you, I can nearly assure you that there are others who feel the same. So, don’t hesitate to seek assistance. This might be the most vital lesson to grasp in the first year. Reach out for help from both your peers and the faculty!
This transitions me to my next point. The faculty in Materials are outstanding. They genuinely want you to thrive and recognize that students face difficulties. They empathize with students and maintain open lines of communication with us throughout the year regarding our concerns. I didn’t fully leverage the pastoral support until the year was nearly over, but I wish I had accessed it earlier. I mentioned taking chances earlier – I took one at the beginning of the year by becoming a year well-being representative. This position allowed me to become acquainted with the staff members, which is incredibly beneficial. There are numerous ways to connect with staff, and it’s one of the best decisions you can make for yourself! My principal takeaway from this aspect of university is to utilize the assistance available. You can never have too much!
In summary, this year has taught me that feelings of nervousness, both prior to and during university, are often unwarranted and can be eased with the various support systems provided by staff and fellow students. It’s shown me that I’m never isolated and how to enjoy myself despite the stressors such as exams and deadlines.