Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Approximately ten months ago, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, fear, and uncertainty regarding what lay ahead. I was on the brink of starting my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Venturing into the unfamiliar was not something my previously timid and reserved self was used to. Looking back now, I recognize a year filled with personal development, obstacles, and plenty of enjoyment! But what insights has this year imparted on me, and what is my current stance?
One of the earliest and most formidable hurdles was forging friendships. This is frequently one of the most daunting elements of commencing university, and if you’re an incoming student, it may be one of your primary worries. On my first day of moving into my residence, a few days prior to the term starting, I spent the entire day retreating to my room, too fearful to venture out and meet others. However, as I sit here today, I can assertively say that I have made some of the finest friends I’ve ever known, both within this university and my course. I have established a second family here at Imperial, and it all initiated with casual conversations with individuals in comparable circumstances. So, what did I discover? I realized that it’s always advantageous to take a risk at the onset of the year. If you’re not quite prepared or at ease, don’t fret! There will be numerous ice-breaking chances and events to facilitate connections with others. I also discovered that if you can embody one quality, it should be authenticity. With so many diverse individuals throughout the course and university, you are sure to find those who resonate with you.
Another obstacle was the intensity and difficulty of the workload. There was certainly a noticeable advancement from A-levels, and in some respects, an even greater jump from the first term to the second. Being immersed in such an atmosphere can be taxing on your self-confidence; you might observe others studying and feel less capable. A few strategies aided me in overcoming that sensation, one being the reminder that everyone shares the same experience. If something is unclear to you, I can almost assure you that there are others who feel the same way. Therefore, do not hesitate to seek assistance. This may be the most crucial lesson to learn in the first year. Reach out for support from your peers and the staff!
This leads me to my next point. The faculty in Materials are remarkable. They genuinely want you to thrive and recognize that students face challenges. They connect with students and maintain regular communication with us throughout the year regarding our concerns. I did not fully tap into the pastoral support until later in the year, but I wish I had done so earlier. I previously mentioned taking risks – I took one at the beginning of the year by becoming a year well-being representative. This position enabled me to familiarize myself with the staff, which is immensely beneficial. There are countless opportunities to get acquainted with staff, and it’s undoubtedly one of the best choices you can make for yourself! My primary lesson from this element of university life is to fully utilize the assistance available. You can never have too much support!
In summary, this year has shown me that feelings of anxiety, both before and during university, are usually misplaced and can be eased through the various support options provided by staff and fellow students. It has taught me that I am never isolated, and it has revealed how to find joy even amidst pressures like exams and deadlines.