Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
A decade ago, in October 2022, I was brimming with anxiety, trepidation, and uncertainty regarding the future. I was on the verge of beginning my journey in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Venturing into the unknown was not a situation my formerly timid and reserved self was familiar with. Looking back now, I perceive a year abundant in personal development, obstacles, and myriad enjoyable experiences! But what insights have I gained, and what is my current status?
One of the earliest and most intimidating hurdles was forging friendships. This is frequently one of the most unnerving elements of commencing university, and if you are an incoming student, it might be your primary worry. On my initial day of moving into my housing, just a few days prior to the start of the semester, I spent the whole day sequestered in my room, too daunted to venture out and meet others. Today, however, I can assertively claim that I’ve established some of the finest friendships here at university and within my program. I have discovered a second family at Imperial, all commencing with casual conversations with individuals in similar circumstances. So, what have I learned? Taking a bold step at the onset of the year is advantageous. If you feel unprepared or uneasy, there’s no need to fret! There will be abundant ice-breaking activities to facilitate your connection with others. I also discovered that being authentic is crucial. With a plethora of diverse individuals within the program and university, you’re likely to encounter like-minded peers.
Another challenge involved the workload and content complexity. There was undoubtedly a noticeable increase from A-levels, and in certain respects, an even greater jump from the first term to the second. Being in such a setting can be taxing on your confidence; you may observe others studying and feel inadequate. Several factors helped me navigate this sensation, one being the reminder that everyone is facing the same challenges. If you find something difficult to comprehend, it’s highly likely others are too. Therefore, seek assistance. This may be the most vital lesson to absorb in the first year. Request support from your classmates and the faculty!
This leads me to my subsequent point. The faculty in Materials is phenomenal. They genuinely want you to thrive and recognize the challenges students experience. They resonate with our struggles and maintain ongoing communication throughout the year regarding our worries. I didn’t fully leverage the pastoral support until the conclusion of the year, but I wish I had done so earlier. I mentioned taking bold steps previously – I did take one by becoming a well-being representative. This position afforded me the opportunity to connect with the faculty, which is incredibly beneficial. There are numerous ways to engage with the staff, and it’s one of the most beneficial actions you can take for yourself! My principal takeaway from this aspect of university life is to utilize the support available. You can never have excessive assistance!
In summary, this year has enlightened me that anxious sensations, both prior to and during university, are frequently unfounded and can be mitigated with the various support options accessible from faculty and fellow students. It has illustrated that I am never alone and has instructed me on how to find joy even amidst stressors such as examinations and deadlines.