Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Approximately ten months ago, in October 2022, I experienced a wave of anxiety, fear, and uncertainty regarding the future. I was on the brink of commencing my journey in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Embracing the unknown was not something my previously timid and introverted self was familiar with. In hindsight, I recognize a year filled with personal development, obstacles, and enjoyable experiences! What insights has this year provided, and what is my current standing?
One of the earliest and most intimidating hurdles was establishing friendships. This aspect of starting university is frequently among the more daunting, and if you are an incoming student, it might be a considerable worry for you. On my first day moving into my accommodation, just a few days before the term commenced, I spent the entire day confined to my room, too apprehensive to step out and meet others. Now, I can confidently assert that I’ve built some of the most meaningful friendships here at university and within my program. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, and it all began with casual conversations with fellow students in similar situations. What did I learn? It’s essential to take a leap at the beginning of the year. If you feel unprepared or uneasy, don’t fret! There will be numerous ice-breaker activities to facilitate connections with others. Additionally, remember to be authentic. With such a diverse community within the course and university, you’re sure to encounter like-minded people.
An additional challenge was managing the workload and the complexity of the content. There was a clear increase from A-levels, and an even more significant jump from the first term to the second. Being in this type of environment can test your self-confidence; you may observe others studying and feel less competent. What aided me was the reminder that everyone is navigating the same challenges. If you find something confusing, it’s likely that others are struggling too. So, don’t hesitate to seek assistance. This might be the most vital skill to cultivate in your first year. Reach out to peers and faculty!
This brings me to my next observation. The faculty in Materials are exceptional. They genuinely want you to thrive and comprehend the challenges that students face. They show understanding and keep open lines of communication with us regarding our concerns. I didn’t completely take advantage of the pastoral support until later in the year, but I wish I had done so earlier. I previously mentioned taking leaps – I did this by becoming a well-being representative for my year. This position enabled me to connect with the faculty, which is invaluable. There are numerous avenues to engage with the staff, and it’s one of the most beneficial actions you can take for yourself! My primary takeaway is to make the most of the available support. You can never receive too much help!
In summary, this year has taught me that feelings of anxiety, both prior to and during university, are often baseless and can be mitigated through the aid provided by staff and fellow students. I’ve come to realize that I’m never truly alone and how to have fun despite pressures like examinations and deadlines.