Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months prior, in October 2022, I felt anxious and uncertain about what lay ahead. I was embarking on my journey in Materials Science and Engineering as a newcomer. Venturing into the unknown was not something my previously reserved self was familiar with. Looking back, I recognize a year characterized by personal development, obstacles, and a great deal of enjoyment! But what insights have I gained this year, and what is my current position?
One of the initial and most intimidating hurdles was forming friendships. This is frequently one of the most daunting elements of commencing university, and if you’re an incoming student, it may be a significant worry for you. On my first day settling into my accommodation, just days before classes commenced, I spent the entire day in my room, too fearful to venture out and meet others. Today, I can proudly say that I’ve forged some of the finest friendships I’ve ever had, right here at this university and within this program. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, and it all commenced with casual conversations with others in similar predicaments. So, what have I taken away from this? I realized that it’s important to leap into social interactions at the beginning of the year. If you feel unprepared or uneasy, don’t fret! There will be ample ice-breaking activities designed to help you engage with others. I also discovered that being authentic is crucial. With such a wide range of people in the course and university, you’re sure to find those who resonate with you.
Another obstacle was the volume of work and the complexity of the material. There was a noticeable increase from A-levels, and an even greater jump from the first term to the second. Being in such a challenging environment can impact your confidence; you might observe others studying and feel inadequate. A few factors aided me during this time, one being the reminder that everyone is navigating similar challenges. If you find something confusing, I can nearly guarantee others do too. So, seek assistance. This might be the most vital skill to cultivate in your first year. Reach out for support from classmates and faculty!
This naturally brings me to my next point. The faculty in Materials are exceptional. They are invested in your success and comprehend the challenges that students encounter. They relate to students and maintain ongoing communication throughout the year regarding any concerns. I didn’t fully take advantage of the pastoral support until later in the year, but I wish I had done so earlier. I mentioned taking risks previously – I made one at the beginning of the year by stepping up as a year well-being representative. This position enabled me to connect with the faculty, which is priceless. There are numerous ways to engage with staff, and it’s one of the best decisions you can make for your well-being! My primary lesson from this is to capitalize on the support available. You can never have too much help!
In summary, this year has taught me that feelings of anxiety, both before and during university, are frequently unfounded and can be mitigated through the support systems provided by staff and fellow students. I’ve learned that I am never alone and discovered how to find joy amidst pressures like exams and deadlines.