Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months prior, in October 2022, I felt anxious, fearful, and uncertain about what lay ahead. I was on the verge of commencing my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Immersing myself in the unfamiliar was not something my previously timid and reserved nature was used to. Looking back now, I recognize a year filled with personal development, obstacles, and a lot of enjoyment! But what insights have I gained, and what is my current status?
One of the initial and most intimidating hurdles was forming friendships. This is frequently one of the most daunting elements of beginning university, and if you’re a future student, it could be a major worry. On my first day of moving into my accommodation, a few days before classes began, I spent the whole day in my room, too daunted to step out and meet others. However, today I can confidently state I’ve made some of the greatest friends here at university and in my program. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, and it all initiated with casual conversations with individuals in similar circumstances. So, what did I come to understand? It’s essential to take a chance at the start of the year. If you’re not prepared or at ease, don’t fret! There will be numerous ice-breaker chances and events to assist you in connecting with others. I also grasped that being authentic is vital. With such a diverse array of people throughout the course and university, you are sure to encounter like-minded peers.
Another obstacle was the intensity of the workload and the complexity of the content. There was a clear increase from A-levels, and an even larger leap from the first term to the second. Being in such a setting can be tough for your self-esteem; you may see your peers studying and feel inferior. What aided me was recalling that everyone is experiencing the same situation. If you’re struggling to comprehend something, it’s likely many others are too. So, seek assistance. This could be the most crucial lesson to absorb in your first year. Don’t hesitate to reach out to your classmates and faculty for help!
This leads me to my next observation. The faculty in Materials is fantastic. They genuinely want you to thrive and understand the challenges students endure. They empathize and maintain open lines of communication with us regarding our concerns. I didn’t fully leverage the pastoral support until the end of the year, but I wish I had done so earlier. I mentioned taking chances before – I took one by becoming a year wellness representative. This position enabled me to connect with the faculty, which is invaluable. There are numerous avenues to engage with staff, and it’s one of the best decisions you can make for yourself! My key takeaway is to utilize the support available. You can never get too much!
All in all, this year has taught me that feelings of anxiety, both prior to and during university, are frequently baseless and can be eased with the aid provided by faculty and fellow students. It taught me that I’m never isolated and how to find enjoyment even amidst pressures such as exams and due dates.