Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Nearly a year ago, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, fear, and uncertainty regarding the future. I was about to embark on my journey in Materials Science and Engineering as a first-year student. Embracing the unfamiliar wasn’t something my formerly shy and introverted self was used to. Looking back now, I recognize a year of personal development, obstacles, and a lot of enjoyment! But what insights have I gained, and what is my current situation?
One of the first and most intimidating hurdles was forming friendships. This is often one of the most daunting aspects of commencing university, and if you’re an incoming student, it might be one of your chief concerns. On my initial day moving into my residence, a few days prior to the start of the term, I spent the entire time sequestered in my room, too scared to venture out and introduce myself. Now, I can proudly say I’ve built some of the finest friendships I’ve ever had, here at this university and within this program. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, and it all began with casual conversations with those in similar situations. So, what did I take away from this experience? It’s advisable to take a chance at the start of the year. If you’re not prepared or feel uneasy, don’t fret! There will be numerous ice-breaker events and opportunities to help you connect with others. Additionally, if you can embody one thing, be yourself. With so many diverse individuals across the program and university, you’re sure to find like-minded peers.
An additional challenge was the academic workload and difficulty of the material. There was surely a shift from A-levels, and in certain respects, an even greater leap from the first term to the second. Being in such a setting can impact your confidence; you might see your peers studying and feel insufficient. A few factors aided me in navigating this, one being the reminder that everyone shares similar experiences. If something is unclear, I can almost assure you that others are struggling with it too. So, don’t hesitate to seek assistance. This may be the most vital lesson to grasp in your first year. Reach out for support from both classmates and faculty!
This brings me to my next observation. The faculty in the Materials department are phenomenal. They genuinely want you to thrive and are aware of the challenges students encounter. They show compassion for us and maintain ongoing dialogue about our concerns. I didn’t tap into the pastoral support until later in the year, but I wish I had done so earlier. I talked about taking leaps before – I did take one by becoming a well-being representative for my year. This position allowed me to connect with the staff, which is immensely beneficial. There are countless ways to engage with faculty, and it is one of the most advantageous actions you can take for yourself! My key takeaway is to make the most of the assistance available. There’s no such thing as too much help!
In conclusion, this year taught me that feelings of anxiety, both before and during university, are frequently unjustified and can be eased with the support resources provided by staff and fellow students. It educated me that I am never truly alone and how to find joy even in the face of pressures like exams and deadlines.