Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Around ten months back, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, fear, and uncertainty about what lay ahead. I was about to embark on my journey in Materials Science and Engineering as a first-year student. Immersing myself in the unfamiliar was not something my formerly shy and reserved nature was used to. Looking back now, I recognize a year filled with personal development, challenges, and enjoyment! But what lessons have surfaced, and where do I stand now?
One of the first and most intimidating hurdles was forging friendships. This is frequently one of the most daunting elements of starting university, and if you’re considering this path, it could be a significant worry for you. On my initial day moving into my residence, mere days before the semester kicked off, I spent the whole day confined to my room, feeling too apprehensive to step outside and meet others. Today, however, I can proudly say I’ve formed some of the finest friendships here at university and within my course. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, all thanks to engaging in brief conversations with those in comparable positions. So, what was the takeaway? I learned that taking a bold step at the start of the year is essential. If you’re not ready or feeling at ease, don’t stress! There will be plenty of ice-breaker activities to assist you in connecting with others. I also realized that authenticity is paramount. With such a diverse group of individuals at the university and in the course, you’re sure to encounter like-minded people.
Another obstacle was balancing the workload and dealing with the complexity of the material. There was a clear increase in difficulty from A-levels, and an even more significant shift from the first to the second term. Being in such an atmosphere can shake your confidence; you might observe others studying and feel inferior. What benefitted me was the reminder that everyone is navigating the same challenges. If you’re struggling with something, it’s likely that others are too. So, don’t hesitate to ask for assistance. This might be the most crucial lesson to grasp in the first year. Reach out to both peers and faculty!
This brings me to my next point. The staff in Materials are outstanding. They genuinely want you to thrive and understand the obstacles students encounter. They offer support and maintain open lines of communication regarding our concerns. I didn’t take advantage of the pastoral support until the year’s end, but I regret not doing so earlier. I mentioned stepping out of my comfort zone earlier – I did so by becoming a year wellbeing representative. This position enabled me to connect with staff members, which is priceless. There are numerous ways to engage with the staff, and it’s one of the best moves you can make for yourself! My primary takeaway is to utilize the support available. You can never have too much!
In conclusion, this year has taught me that feelings of anxiety, both prior to and during university, are often baseless and can be diminished with the assistance available from staff and fellow students. It has revealed to me that I am never alone and has shown me how to find enjoyment amidst stressors like exams and deadlines.