Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, fear, and uncertainty about what lay ahead. I was on the verge of commencing my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Embracing the unknown was foreign to my previously shy and introverted nature. Looking back now, I recognize a year filled with personal development, challenges, and a great deal of enjoyment! But what insights have I gained, and what is my current position?
One of the first and most intimidating hurdles was forming friendships. This is frequently one of the most intimidating elements of starting university, and if you are an incoming student, it might be your greatest concern. On the day I moved into my accommodation, days before classes began, I stayed in my room the entire day, too fearful to venture out and meet others. Now, I can assertively say I’ve forged some of the best friendships at university and within my program. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, and it all began with casual conversations with others in similar circumstances. So, what have I learned? I’ve realized that taking a leap early in the year is beneficial. If you’re not prepared or at ease, don’t fret! There will be numerous ice-breaker chances and events to aid you in connecting with others. Additionally, I learned that authenticity is essential. With such a diverse range of people in the program and at the university, you are sure to encounter like-minded peers.
Another obstacle was the volume of work and the complexity of the material. There was a significant leap from A-levels, and an even larger jump from the first term to the second. Being in this type of environment can undermine your confidence; you might observe others studying and feel less capable. A few factors aided my progression through this, one being the reminder that everyone is facing similar challenges. If you’re confused about something, I can almost assure you that others are as well. Hence, don’t hesitate to seek assistance. This could be the most vital lesson to grasp in your first year. Reach out for help from classmates and faculty!
This brings me to my next observation. The faculty in Materials are exceptional. They genuinely want you to thrive and recognize the challenges that students endure. They empathize with us and sustain open lines of communication throughout the year regarding our concerns. I didn’t make the most of the pastoral support until the year was nearly over, but I wish I had engaged with it earlier. I mentioned taking leaps earlier – I made one by becoming a wellbeing representative for my year. This position allowed me to connect with the faculty, which is incredibly beneficial. There are numerous avenues to engage with faculty, and it’s one of the best actions you can take for yourself! My primary takeaway is to embrace the support available. You can never have an excess of assistance!
In conclusion, this year has conveyed to me that feelings of anxiety, both before and during university, are often baseless and can be eased through the various support systems from faculty and fellow students. It has demonstrated that I am never isolated and has taught me how to find joy even amidst stressors such as exams and deadlines.