Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Approximately ten months ago, in October 2022, I felt anxious and uncertain about the future. I was on the cusp of starting my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Venturing into the unknown was not something my previously introverted self was familiar with. Looking back now, I recognize a year filled with personal development, obstacles, and a great deal of enjoyment! But what insights have I gained, and where do I find myself today?
One of the first and most intimidating hurdles was forming friendships. This is frequently one of the most daunting aspects of commencing university, and if you’re an incoming student, it might be a significant worry. On my initial day moving into my residence, just days before the term kicked off, I remained in my room the entire day, too apprehensive to venture out and meet others. Today, I can proudly say I’ve forged some of the best friendships here at university and within my program. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, which began with light conversation with others in comparable situations. So, what did I discover? I learned that taking a bold step at the beginning of the year is essential. If you’re not prepared or feel uneasy, don’t fret! There are numerous ice-breaker activities to help you engage with others. I also learned that being true to yourself is vital. With such a diverse range of people within the course and university, you’re likely to connect with those who share similar interests.
Another challenge was managing the workload and the difficulty of the content. The transition from A-levels was significant, and an even larger leap occurred from the first term to the second. Being in such a setting can impact your self-esteem; you may feel less capable compared to your peers. What assisted me was the realization that everyone is experiencing similar challenges. If something isn’t clear, it’s likely that others are puzzled too. Therefore, don’t hesitate to seek assistance. This is arguably the most crucial lesson to grasp in your first year. Reach out for support from classmates and faculty!
This brings me to my next point. The faculty in Materials are remarkable. They genuinely want you to succeed and understand the challenges students encounter. They are sympathetic and maintain open lines of communication with us throughout the year. I didn’t fully take advantage of the pastoral support until later in the year, but I wish I had made use of it sooner. I mentioned taking risks – I took one by becoming a wellbeing representative for my year. This position enabled me to connect with faculty, which is invaluable. There are numerous opportunities to build relationships with staff, and it’s one of the best things you can do for yourself! My primary takeaway is to leverage the support available to you. You can never have too much assistance!
All in all, this year has taught me that feelings of anxiety, both prior to and during university, are often unfounded and can be mitigated with the support provided by staff and fellow students. It has shown me that I’m never alone and how to find enjoyment even amidst pressures like exams and deadlines.