By Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, fear, and uncertainty about what lay ahead. I was on the verge of embarking on my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Venturing into the unknown was not something my previously shy and reserved self was used to. Looking back, I recognize a year filled with personal development, challenges, and a lot of enjoyment! But what insights have I gained, and where do I stand now?
One of the initial and most intimidating hurdles I encountered was making connections with others. This is frequently one of the most daunting parts of beginning university, and if you are an incoming student, it may be your primary concern. On the first day I moved into my accommodation, just days before the term started, I spent the entire day sequestered in my room, too apprehensive to venture out and introduce myself. However, today I can proudly say that I’ve formed some of the finest friendships I’ve ever made, here at this university and in this course. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, and it all began with casual conversations with individuals in similar circumstances. So, what did I take away from this experience? I realized that making a bold move at the year’s onset is always beneficial. If you feel unprepared or uneasy, don’t fret! There will be numerous opportunities for ice-breakers and activities to help you connect with fellow students. I also learned that if there’s one thing you should prioritize, it’s being true to yourself. With the diverse range of people throughout the course and university, you’re sure to find those who resonate with you.
Another obstacle was the volume of work and the challenge of the content. There was certainly a leap from A-levels, and in some respects, an even greater leap from the first term to the second. Being placed in such a setting can be taxing on your self-esteem; you might observe others studying and feel inadequate. A few strategies helped me navigate that emotion, one being the acknowledgment that we are all in similar situations. If you struggle to grasp a concept, I can nearly assure you that others are as well. So, seek assistance. This might be the key lesson to learn in your first year. Don’t hesitate to ask for help from your classmates and the faculty!
That leads me to my next point. The faculty in Materials are exceptional. They genuinely want you to thrive and understand that students face difficulties. They relate to students and maintain ongoing communication with us throughout the year regarding our concerns. I didn’t truly utilize the support services until late in the year, but I wish I had done so earlier. I mentioned earlier about taking risks – I took one at the year’s beginning by becoming a year well-being representative. This role enabled me to familiarize myself with the staff, which is highly beneficial. There are many avenues to connect with faculty, and it’s certainly one of the best decisions you can make for yourself! My primary takeaway from this aspect of university life is to make the most of the resources available. You can never have too much support!
All in all, this year has shown me that feelings of anxiety, both prior to and during university, are often unfounded and can be eased with the multitude of support options provided by faculty and fellow students. It has taught me that I am never alone and how to find enjoyment amidst stressors such as exams and deadlines.