By Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with nerves, anxiety, and uncertainty about what lay ahead. I was about to embark on my studies in Materials Science and Engineering as a first-year student. Leaping into the unknown was not something my formerly shy and reserved self was used to. Looking back now, I can see a year filled with personal growth, obstacles, and a lot of fun! But what valuable lessons did this year have in store, and what is my current standing?
One of the first and most intimidating hurdles was meeting new people. This is often one of the most daunting parts of starting university, and if you’re reading this as a potential student, it may be one of your biggest worries. On my initial day moving into my accommodation, just days before classes started, I spent the whole day tucked away in my room, too anxious to venture out and meet others. However, reflecting from this point, I can speak with confidence that I’ve formed some of the finest friendships at this university and within this course. I’ve created a second family here at Imperial, and it all began with casual conversations with individuals in similar situations. So, what did I glean from this? I learned that taking a risk at the beginning of the year is always advantageous. If you don’t feel ready or comfortable, don’t fret! There will be many ice-breaker activities designed to help you connect with others. I also realized that being authentic is vital. With such a wide variety of individuals across the course and the university, you are sure to find those who resonate with your true self.
Another obstacle was the course load and the complexity of the subject matter. There was a significant transition from A-levels, and in some respects, an even greater leap from the first to the second term. Being plunged into such a setting can be challenging for your self-esteem; you might observe others studying and feel inadequate. Several things assisted me through this, one being the reminder that everyone is in the same boat. If you struggle with something, it’s likely that others do as well. So, don’t hesitate to reach out for assistance. This might be the most crucial lesson to grasp in the first year. Seek help from classmates and faculty!
This leads me to my next point. The faculty in Materials are exceptional. They genuinely want you to thrive and recognize the challenges that students encounter. They show empathy towards students and keep up regular communication throughout the year regarding our concerns. I didn’t fully take advantage of the pastoral support until the latter part of the year, but I wish I had done so earlier. I mentioned making bold moves earlier – I took one by becoming a year well-being representative. This role enabled me to connect with the staff, which is incredibly beneficial. There are numerous ways to establish rapport with faculty, and it’s among the best things you can do for yourself! My main takeaway from this aspect of university life is to make the most of the support available. You can never have too much!
Overall, this year has shown me that feelings of anxiety, both before and during university, are often baseless and can be eased with the various support systems accessible from faculty and fellow students. It has taught me that I am never alone and how to find joy amidst pressures like exams and deadlines.