By Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months back, in October 2022, I felt anxious and unsure about what lay ahead as I got ready to embark on my journey in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Venturing into the unknown was foreign to my previously reserved persona. Looking back at the past academic year, I recognize a time rich with personal development, hurdles, and enjoyment. But what insights have I gained, and where do I stand now?
One of the initial and most intimidating hurdles was forging friendships. This can be one of the most daunting elements of beginning university, and if you are a future student, it may weigh heavily on your mind. On my first day moving into my accommodation, just days before classes commenced, I spent the whole day in my room, feeling too shy to go out and connect with others. Thankfully, I can now proudly say that I have made some of the best friends during my time at university and within my course. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, and it all began with casual chats with others in similar positions. So, what did I take away from this? It’s wise to take a leap at the beginning of the year. If you’re not feeling ready or comfortable, don’t stress! There will be numerous ice-breaker activities to assist you in connecting with others. I also discovered that being true to yourself is essential. With so many diverse individuals around the course and university, you’re sure to find others who share your mindset.
Another obstacle was managing the workload and the complexity of the content. The transition from A-levels was certainly significant, with an even greater leap from the first to the second term. Being in such a setting can impact your confidence; you may feel unworthy compared to your peers. What helped me was the realization that everyone is experiencing the same challenges. If you’re struggling to grasp a concept, it’s likely that others are as well. So, don’t hesitate to seek assistance. This might be the most crucial lesson from the first year. Reach out for support from peers and staff!
This brings me to my next observation. The faculty within the Materials department are remarkable. They genuinely want you to excel and understand the challenges that students encounter. They are empathetic and maintain consistent communication throughout the academic year. I didn’t fully take advantage of the pastoral support until the end of the year, but I wish I had leveraged it sooner. I took a chance at the start of the year by becoming a peer well-being representative. This experience allowed me to connect with the staff, which is invaluable. There are many avenues to engage with faculty, and it’s one of the best choices you can make for your well-being! My key takeaway is to capitalize on the assistance available. You can never have too much!
In summary, this year has taught me that feelings of anxiety regarding university are often unfounded and can be soothed by the support provided by faculty and fellow students. It has demonstrated to me that I’m never truly alone and has taught me how to find joy in my experiences despite the pressures of exams and deadlines.