By Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I felt anxious and uncertain about the future as I embarked on my journey in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Venturing into the unknown was not something my previously reserved self was used to. Looking back now, I can see a year brimming with personal development, challenges, and a great deal of enjoyment. But what insights have I gained, and what is my current situation?
One of the initial and most intimidating hurdles was forging friendships. This is frequently one of the most daunting elements of starting university, and for prospective students, it might be a significant worry. On my first day in my dorm, I spent the entire day in my room, too daunted to step outside and engage with others. Fast forward to now, and I can assertively say I’ve formed some of the best bonds here at university and within my program. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, initiated through small conversations with others in similar circumstances. The takeaway? Make the effort to connect at the start of the year. If you’re not quite ready, no need to fret! There are numerous ice-breaking events designed to facilitate connections. Additionally, just be yourself. With such a varied group of individuals, you’re sure to encounter those who resonate with you.
Another obstacle was the amount of work and the complexity of the material. There was a clear transition from A-level studies and an even larger leap from the first to the second term. Being in such a setting can disrupt your self-esteem; you may feel insufficient compared to your peers. Keep in mind, everyone is experiencing similar challenges. If something is unclear to you, it’s likely that others are struggling too. So, don’t hesitate to reach out for assistance. This may be the most vital skill to cultivate during your first year. Seek support from both classmates and faculty!
The faculty in Materials are outstanding. They genuinely wish for your success and understand the difficulties students encounter. They show empathy and maintain open lines of communication throughout the academic year. I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support until the end of the year, but I regret not doing so earlier. I took a step forward by becoming a year well-being representative, which allowed me to connect with faculty—a valuable experience. There are numerous opportunities to engage with staff, and it’s one of the best actions you can take for yourself! My primary lesson is to make the most of the assistance available. You can never have an excess of support!
This year has universally taught me that feelings of anxiety regarding university are often baseless and can be eased through the support provided by staff and fellow students. I’ve realized I’m never truly alone and have learned to enjoy life despite the pressure from exams and deadlines.