Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months prior, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, fear, and uncertainty about what lay ahead. I was on the verge of starting my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Venturing into uncharted territory was not something my formerly timid and reserved self was familiar with. Looking back now, I recognize a year filled with personal development, challenges, and a great deal of enjoyment! But what insights have I gained this year, and what is my current situation?
One of the first and most intimidating hurdles was forming friendships. This is often one of the most anxiety-inducing aspects of commencing university, and if you’re a future student, it might be one of your greatest concerns. On my initial day of moving into my housing, a few days before classes began, I spent the whole day retreating in my room, too daunted to venture out and meet others. Today, however, I can proudly say I’ve formed some of the greatest friendships I’ve ever had, here at this university and within this program. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, and it all initiated with casual conversations with individuals in comparable situations. So, what did I discover? I learned that taking a risk at the beginning of the year is always advantageous. If you aren’t feeling prepared or at ease, don’t fret! There will be numerous ice-breaker opportunities and events to assist you in connecting with others. I also came to realize that if you can embody one trait, be genuine. With such a diverse range of individuals throughout the program and university, you’re sure to find those who resonate with you.
Another obstacle was the intensity of the workload and the complexity of the material. There was undoubtedly a shift from A-levels, and in certain aspects, an even greater shift from the first term to the second. Being thrust into such an atmosphere can be challenging for your confidence; you may observe others studying and feel inadequate. A few strategies helped me navigate that sensation, one being the reminder that everyone is experiencing similar challenges. If you don’t grasp something, I can almost assure you that others are in the same position. Therefore, don’t hesitate to ask for assistance. This may be the most crucial lesson to learn in your first year. Reach out for support from your classmates and faculty!
This leads me to my next point. The faculty in Materials are exceptional. They are dedicated to your success and recognize that students face difficulties. They empathize with students and maintain ongoing communication with us regarding our concerns throughout the year. I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support until the year’s end, but I wish I had taken advantage of it sooner. I spoke earlier about taking risks – I embraced one at the beginning of the year by becoming a well-being representative for the year. This position enabled me to connect with the faculty members, which is incredibly valuable. There are numerous avenues to familiarize yourself with the faculty, and it’s undoubtedly one of the best actions you can take for yourself! My key takeaway from this aspect of university is to seize the support available. You can never have an excess of help!
All in all, this year has shown me that feelings of nervousness, both prior to and during university, are frequently misplaced and can be alleviated through the various support systems available from staff and fellow students. It has taught me that I am never isolated and how to enjoy myself amidst stressors like exams and deadlines.