Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months back, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, fear, and uncertainty regarding the future. I was on the verge of beginning my studies in Materials Science and Engineering as a newcomer. Venturing into the unfamiliar was not something my previously shy and introverted self was used to. Looking back now, I perceive a year rich in personal development, hurdles, and a great deal of enjoyment! But what insights has this year provided, and where do I currently find myself?
One of the first and most intimidating obstacles was forming friendships. This is undoubtedly one of the most frightening elements of starting university, and if you’re a prospective student reading this, it may be a significant worry for you. On my initial day moving into my residence, just before the term commenced, I spent the whole day concealed in my room, too fearful to venture out and meet others. However, today I can proudly assert that I’ve cultivated some of the finest friendships here at this university and in my program. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, and it all kicked off with casual conversations with others in similar circumstances. So, what have I discovered? I found that it’s always beneficial to take a dive at the beginning of the year. If you’re not entirely prepared or at ease, don’t stress! There will be numerous social events to assist you in connecting with others. I also learned that if you can be anything, be true to yourself. With a plethora of diverse individuals across the course and university, you’re sure to encounter those who resonate with you.
Another hurdle was the workload and difficulty of the material. There was undoubtedly a noticeable increase from A-levels, and in some respects, an even larger jump from the first term to the second. Being thrown into such a setting can be taxing on your self-esteem; you might observe others studying and feel insufficient. A few factors helped me navigate this sentiment, one being the reminder that everyone is facing similar challenges. If you struggle to grasp something, I can nearly assure you that others do as well. So, don’t hesitate to seek assistance. This might be the most vital lesson to absorb in the first year. Seek help from classmates and faculty!
This leads me to my next point. The faculty in Materials are exceptional. They genuinely want you to thrive and recognize the challenges students encounter. They empathize with students and keep open lines of communication throughout the year regarding our concerns. I didn’t fully take advantage of the supportive resources until the end of the year, but I wish I had utilized them earlier. I mentioned earlier about taking leaps – I took one at the start of the year by becoming a well-being representative for my year. This role enabled me to connect with the staff, which is incredibly beneficial. There are various ways to engage with staff, and it’s one of the best things you can do for yourself! My primary takeaway from this facet of university is to seize the help available. You can never have too much!
In conclusion, this year has imparted to me that the anxious feelings, both prior to and during university, are frequently unfounded and can be eased with the myriad of support options offered by both staff and fellow students. It has taught me that I am never alone and how to find joy even amidst stressors like exams and due dates.