Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Nearly a year ago, in October 2022, I was filled with anxiety and uncertainty about what lay ahead. I was on the verge of starting my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Venturing into the unfamiliar was not typical for my once shy self. Now, reflecting on the past year, I recognize it has been a time packed with personal development, challenges, and a great deal of enjoyment! But what insights have I gained, and what is my current status?
One of the first and most intimidating hurdles was forming friendships. This is often among the most intimidating elements of beginning university, and if you’re an incoming student, it may be a major worry for you. On my initial day of moving into my lodging, a few days prior to the semester starting, I spent the whole day confined to my room, too scared to venture out and socialize. Today, I can proudly say I’ve connected with some of the finest friends here at university and in my program. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, and it all originated with simple conversations with others in the same boat. So, what did I discover? I learned that taking a chance at the beginning of the year is always rewarding. If you’re feeling unprepared or uneasy, don’t fret! There will be numerous ice-breaking activities to help you meet others. I also realized that authenticity is key. With such a diverse array of individuals in the program and at the university, you are sure to encounter like-minded people.
A further challenge was the intensity of the workload and the difficulty of the material. The shift from A-levels was significant, and an even larger transition occurred from the first to the second term. Being in such a setting can be challenging for your self-esteem; you may observe peers studying and feel inadequate. What supported me was the understanding that everyone is experiencing similar challenges. If you find something perplexing, I assure you there are others who are too. Therefore, seek assistance. This may be one of the most vital lessons to grasp in your first year. Don’t hesitate to ask your classmates and the faculty for help!
This leads me to my next observation. The faculty in Materials are exceptional. They genuinely want you to thrive and comprehend the difficulties students encounter. They show understanding and keep open lines of communication with us throughout the year regarding our concerns. I didn’t fully take advantage of the emotional support until later in the year, but I wish I had done so earlier. I mentioned taking risks before – I took one by becoming a well-being representative for my year. This position enabled me to familiarize myself with the staff, which is invaluable. There are multiple opportunities to engage with the faculty, and it’s one of the best decisions you can make for your own well-being! My primary takeaway from this part of university life is to make the most of the support that is available. You can never have too much!
In summary, this year has shown me that feelings of anxiety, both prior to and during university, are often unfounded and can be mitigated with the support systems provided by both staff and fellow students. It has taught me that I am never alone and how to find joy despite pressures like exams and deadlines.