By Dawson La, MEng in Materials Science and Engineering
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with nerves, fear, 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 unknown was not something my previously shy and introverted self was used to. Looking back now, I realize how much I’ve grown personally over this year, encountering challenges and enjoying a lot of fun! But what insights have I gained this year, and what is my current position?
One of the earliest and most intimidating hurdles was forging friendships. This is frequently one of the most daunting elements of commencing university, and if you’re an incoming student, it might be a significant worry for you. On the first day of my accommodation move-in, just days before classes started, I spent the whole day in my room, feeling too shy to venture out and meet others. Fast forward to today, I can proudly say I’ve made some of the best friends during my time at university and within my course. I’ve found a second family here at Imperial, all through initiating small conversations with individuals in similar situations. So, what lesson did I take away? I realized that it’s always beneficial to dive in at the beginning of the year. If you’re not prepared or feel uneasy, don’t stress! There are numerous ice-breaker events designed to help you interact with others. I also discovered that authenticity is crucial. With such diverse individuals throughout the course and university, you’re sure to find those who share your mindset.
Another difficulty was dealing with the volume of work and complexity of the material. The transition from A-levels was quite pronounced, especially between the first and second terms. Being in such a setting can undermine your confidence; you might observe others studying and feel insufficient. What helped me was the realization that everyone faces similar challenges. If something is unclear, it’s likely others are struggling with it too. Therefore, it’s essential to seek assistance. This might be the most vital lesson from the first year: reach out for help from peers and faculty!
This leads me to my following point. The faculty in the Materials department are exceptional. They are genuinely invested in your success and understand the challenges students encounter. They show empathy and ensure there’s constant dialogue regarding our concerns. I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support until the latter part of the year, but I wish I had taken advantage of it sooner. I referred to taking leaps earlier – I took one by becoming a well-being representative for my year. This position enabled me to connect with the faculty, which is invaluable. There are numerous pathways to engage with the staff, and it’s one of the best things you can do for your own benefit! My key lesson is to make the most of the support 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 eased with the support provided by staff and fellow students. I’ve recognized that I’m never alone and learned how to find enjoyment despite pressures like exams and deadlines.