Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I found myself feeling anxious, frightened, and unsure 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 previous shy and reserved persona was familiar with. Looking back now, I can see a year of academia filled with personal development, challenges, and a lot of enjoyment! But what insights have I gained this year, and what is my current situation?
One of the initial and most intimidating obstacles I encountered was forming friendships. This certainly ranks among the more daunting challenges of beginning university, and if you’re reading this as a potential student, it might be one of your greatest worries. On my arrival day when I moved into my accommodation, a few days prior to the term starting, I spent the whole day sequestered in my room because I felt too daunted to venture out and introduce myself to others. However, sitting here today, I can proudly state that I have made some of the best friends of my life, right here at this university and in this program. I’ve created a second family at Imperial, and it all initiated with casual conversations with individuals in similar situations. So, what did I discover? I realized that taking a leap at the beginning of the year is always a wise decision. If you don’t feel entirely prepared or at ease, fear not! There will be numerous ice-breaker events and opportunities to engage with others. I also discovered that if you can embody one thing, be your authentic self. With so many diverse individuals throughout the course and university, you are sure to find those who resonate with you.
Another hurdle I encountered was the volume of work and the complexity of the material. There was indeed a significant escalation from A-levels, and in certain aspects, an even larger leap from the first term to the second. Being immersed in such a setting isn’t always beneficial for your confidence; observing others studying may lead you to doubt your abilities. A few factors aided me during that period, one being the reminder that everyone shares similar experiences. If you find something perplexing, I can nearly guarantee there are several others who also do not grasp it. Therefore, seek assistance. This may be the most crucial lesson to grasp in your first year. Don’t hesitate to ask for help from your classmates and faculty!
This leads me to my next point. The faculty in Materials are exceptional. They genuinely care about your success and recognize that students face challenges. They empathize with our circumstances and keep in constant touch with us throughout the year regarding our concerns. I didn’t really utilize the pastoral support until the year’s end, but I wish I had taken advantage of it earlier. I mentioned taking leaps before – I made one at the year’s outset by becoming a well-being representative for my year. This role allowed me to cultivate relationships with the faculty members, which is extremely worthwhile. There are numerous avenues to connect with the staff, and it is undoubtedly one of the best steps you can take for your own benefit! My primary takeaway from this aspect of university is to make the most of the assistance available to you. There’s no such thing as too much!
Overall, this year has shown me that feelings of anxiety, both before and during university, are almost always unwarranted and can be eased by the plethora of support options provided by staff and fellow students. It has taught me that I am never alone, and it has shown me how to enjoy myself even amid pressures like exams and deadlines.