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 set to embark on my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Venturing into the unknown was not something my previously introverted and reserved self was used to. Looking back now, I recognize a year filled with personal development, challenges, and enjoyment! But what have I discovered, and what is my current standing?
One of the first and most intimidating hurdles was forming friendships. This is frequently one of the most nerve-wracking components of starting university, and if you’re an incoming student, it might be a significant worry. On my first day moving into residence, just days before the semester began, I spent the whole day in my room, too daunted to emerge and meet others. Now, I can proudly say I have made some of the finest friends here at university and in my program. I have discovered a second family at Imperial, and it all commenced with casual conversations with others in similar situations. What did I learn? It’s beneficial to take a chance at the onset of the year. If you’re not prepared or at ease, don’t stress! There are numerous ice-breaker activities to assist with connecting. Also, be genuine. With such a diverse crowd at the university, you’re sure to find those who resonate with you.
Another obstacle was managing the workload and the complexity of the material. There was a noticeable jump from A-levels, and an even larger jump from the first to the second term. Being in such a setting can be challenging for your self-esteem; observing others study might lead you to feel inadequate. What aided me was recalling that everyone is experiencing similar challenges. If something is unclear, chances are others are in the same predicament. Therefore, seek assistance. This is possibly the most vital lesson from the first year. Reach out to your peers and instructors!
This brings me to my subsequent point. The faculty in Materials are outstanding. They are invested in your success and are aware of the challenges that students encounter. They show understanding and maintain ongoing communication with us regarding our concerns. I didn’t fully take advantage of the pastoral support until the year was nearing its end, but I wish I had done so earlier. I took a bold step by becoming a well-being representative for my year, which provided me with the chance to connect with the staff, a precious opportunity. There are numerous ways to engage with the faculty, and it’s one of the most beneficial actions you can take for yourself! My key takeaway is to make the most of the assistance available. You can never have too much!
All in all, this year demonstrated that feelings of apprehension regarding university are often unfounded and can be mitigated through the support accessible from staff and fellow students. It taught me that I’m never alone and how to find enjoyment even amidst the stress of exams and deadlines.