Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months back, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, fear, and uncertainty regarding my future. I was on the verge of starting my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Venturing into the unfamiliar was not something my previously introverted and reserved self was used to. Looking back now, I recognize a year marked by personal development, obstacles, and a lot of enjoyment! But what insights have I gained, and where do I stand now?
One of the first and most intimidating hurdles was forming friendships. This is frequently one of the most frightening elements of commencing university, and if you’re a future student, it may be your greatest worry. On my initial day moving into my accommodation, a few days prior to the beginning of classes, I spent the whole day sequestered in my room, too daunted to step out and meet others. However, today, I can proudly assert that I’ve forged some of the finest friendships here at this university and in my program. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, and it all commenced with casual conversations with individuals in similar positions. So, what did I discover? I found out that it’s best to take a chance right at the start of the academic year. If you don’t feel prepared or at ease, don’t fret! There will be numerous ice-breaker activities to assist you in connecting with others. I also discovered that being authentic is essential. With such a diverse population throughout the program and university, you are sure to encounter kindred spirits.
Another obstacle was the volume of work and complexity of the material. There was undoubtedly a noticeable increase from A-levels, and in certain respects, an even greater leap from the first to the second term. Being in such a setting can be challenging for your self-esteem; you might observe others studying and feel inferior. A few things aided me through this, one being the reminder that everyone is navigating similar challenges. If you find something difficult to grasp, I can nearly assure you that others are struggling too. So, don’t hesitate to ask for assistance. This might be the most vital lesson to embrace in your first year. Reach out for help from classmates and faculty!
This brings me to my next observation. The staff in Materials are exceptional. They genuinely want you to thrive and are aware of the difficulties students encounter. They relate to our experiences and sustain open lines of communication regarding our concerns. I didn’t fully engage with the supportive resources until the year’s end, but I wish I had done so sooner. I spoke of taking leaps earlier – I took one by stepping into the role of a year well-being representative. This position enabled me to connect with faculty members, which is invaluable. There are numerous ways to engage with staff, and it’s one of the best decisions you can make for yourself! My key takeaway from this facet of university is to capitalize on the assistance provided. You can never receive too much!
In conclusion, this year has enlightened me that anxious feelings, both prior to and during university, are often baseless and can be mitigated with the support available from faculty and fellow students. It has taught me that I’m never alone, and it has illustrated how to have fun despite pressures like exams and deadlines.