Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Nearly a year ago, in October 2022, I felt anxious, fearful, and uncertain about the future. I was on the verge of beginning my journey in Materials Science and Engineering as a first-year student. Plunging into the unknown was not something my previously introverted self was accustomed to. Reflecting on that year, I recognize a period filled with personal growth, obstacles, and abundant enjoyment! But what lessons has this year imparted, and where do I stand now?
One of the earliest and most intimidating challenges I encountered was forging friendships. This truly ranks as one of the more intimidating aspects of commencing university, and if you’re a future student reading this, it might be one of your main concerns. On my first day settling into my residence, just days before classes began, I spent a whole day secluded in my room, overwhelmed by the thought of stepping out and introducing myself to others. Today, though, I can proudly assert that I’ve formed some of the most meaningful friendships I’ve ever experienced, right here at this university and within this program. I have created a second family at Imperial, and all it took was engaging in light conversations with others in similar circumstances. So, what have I discovered? I found that it’s always advantageous to take that initial leap at the start of the year. If you don’t feel completely prepared or at ease, don’t fret! There will be ample opportunities and events designed to facilitate interactions with others. I also realized that if you can embody one quality, be authentic. There’s a diverse array of individuals across the course and campus; you are sure to encounter those who resonate with you.
Another obstacle I faced was managing the workload and the level of difficulty in the content. There was indeed a significant escalation from A-levels, and in certain aspects, an even greater transition from the first term to the second. Being thrust into such an environment can be challenging for your self-esteem; you might observe your peers studying and feel inadequate. There were a few strategies that helped me navigate that sensation, one being the reassurance that everyone is sharing similar experiences. If something baffles you, I can nearly assure you that several others are in the same position. So, seek assistance. This might be the most crucial lesson to grasp in your first year. Reach out for support from your classmates and faculty!
This leads me to my next point. The staff in the Materials department are exceptional. They genuinely want you to succeed, and they understand the struggles faced by students. They relate to us and maintain open lines of communication throughout the year regarding our challenges. I didn’t fully utilize the support available until the latter part of the year, which I regret. I mentioned earlier about taking risks – I did take one at the start of the year by becoming a year wellbeing representative. This role allowed me to connect with faculty members, which is incredibly valuable. There are numerous opportunities to familiarize yourself with staff, and it’s undoubtedly one of the best things you can do for your personal growth! My key takeaway from this aspect of university life is to embrace the assistance available to you. You can never have too much support!
Overall, this year has revealed to me that feelings of anxiety, both prior to and during university, are largely unfounded and can be alleviated with the multitude of support options provided by staff and fellow students. I’ve learned that I am never alone, and I’ve also figured out how to find enjoyment amid stressors like exams and deadlines.