Authored by Dawson La, MEng in Materials Science and Engineering
Ten months back, in October 2022, I felt a mix of anxiety and uncertainty about what lay ahead. I was starting my journey in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Engaging with the unknown was not something my former shy self was familiar with. Looking back now, I realize this year has been filled with personal development, challenges, and enjoyment! What insights have I gained, and where do I stand now?
One of the first and most intimidating hurdles was making friendships. This can be one of the most daunting parts of beginning university, and if you’re an incoming student, it may be a significant worry. On my first day settling into my accommodation, days before classes started, I remained in my room all day, daunted by the idea of meeting new faces. Today, I can genuinely say I’ve formed some of the best friendships here at the university and within my program. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, originating from engaging in small talks with others in similar circumstances. What did I discover? It’s important to take the initiative early in the year. If you’re not ready or comfortable, don’t stress! There will be numerous ice-breaking activities to assist you in forming connections. Additionally, be authentic. With such a diverse array of people in the program and the university, you’re sure to meet like-minded peers.
Another obstacle was the workload and complexity of the content. There was a significant leap from A-levels, even more so between the first and second terms. Being in such a setting can influence your self-esteem; you might observe others studying and feel underqualified. A few strategies helped me through this, one being the realization that everyone is in a similar boat. If you’re confused about something, it’s likely that others are too. Therefore, don’t hesitate to ask for assistance. This may be the most vital lesson from the first year. Reach out to classmates and faculty for support!
This brings me to my next point. The faculty in Materials is outstanding. They genuinely want you to thrive and are aware of the challenges students encounter. They understand and keep consistent communication regarding our concerns. I didn’t utilize the pastoral support until late in the year, but I wish I had done so earlier. I spoke of taking chances – I took one by becoming a year well-being representative. This position enabled me to connect with the faculty, which is invaluable. There are numerous ways to engage with the staff, and it’s one of the best decisions you can make for yourself! My key takeaway is to make the most of the support available. You can never have too much!
In conclusion, this year has shown me that anxious feelings regarding university are often baseless and can be eased with the support from staff and fellow students. It has demonstrated that I’m never alone and how to find joy despite the pressure from exams and deadlines.