Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
In October 2022, ten months ago, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, fear, and uncertainty regarding the future. I was on the brink of commencing my Materials Science and Engineering degree as a freshman. Venturing into unfamiliar territory was not something my formerly shy and reserved self was used to. Now, as I reflect, I recognize a year abundant with personal development, obstacles, and plenty of enjoyment! But what insights has this year provided, and where do I find myself currently?
One of the first and most intimidating hurdles was socializing. This is frequently one of the most daunting parts of beginning university, and if you’re a prospective student reading this, it could be a significant worry for you. On my inaugural day moving into my residence, a few days prior to the term starting, I spent the entire day cloistered in my room, too daunted to venture out and introduce myself to others. Yet, as I sit here now, I’m proud to say that I’ve forged some of the most meaningful friendships I’ve ever had, both at this university and in this program. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, and it all initiated with casual discussions with individuals in comparable situations. So, what did I discover? I realized that it’s always advantageous to take a risk at the onset of the year. If you don’t feel prepared or at ease, don’t fret! There will be a myriad of ice-breaker chances and events to assist you in connecting with others. I also discovered that if you can embody one quality, be yourself. With such a diverse range of individuals throughout the course and the university, you’re certain to encounter those akin to you.
Another obstacle was the intensity of the workload and the complexity of the material. There was undoubtedly a leap from A-levels, and in certain ways, an even greater shift from the first term to the second. Being thrust into such a setting can challenge your confidence; you might observe peers studying and feel inadequate. Several factors helped me navigate that sensation, one being the reminder that everyone is facing similar challenges. If you don’t grasp something, I can nearly assure you there are others who also don’t. So, don’t hesitate to ask for assistance. This might be the most crucial lesson to learn in the first year. Seek support from your fellow students and the faculty!
This leads me to my next point. The faculty in Materials is fantastic. They genuinely wish for your success and recognize that students face difficulties. They sympathize with our struggles and maintain ongoing communication with us throughout the year regarding our concerns. I didn’t really engage with pastoral support until the year’s end, but I wish I had done so earlier. I mentioned taking risks before – I took one at the beginning of the year by becoming a well-being representative for my year. This role enabled me to build rapport with the faculty, which is incredibly beneficial. There are numerous ways to connect with staff, and it’s certainly one of the most advantageous things you can do for yourself! My chief takeaway from this facet of university life is to leverage the support available to you. You cannot have too much!
In conclusion, this year has taught me that anxious feelings, both prior to and during university, are often baseless and can be alleviated through the support provided by faculty and fellow students. It has shown me that I am never alone and how to find joy alongside pressures such as exams and deadlines.