By Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months back, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, fear, and uncertainty regarding the future. I was about to embark on my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a newcomer. Diving into uncharted territory was not something my previously shy and introverted self was used to. Looking back on the past year, I can see a path of personal development, challenges, and plenty of enjoyment! But what insights have I gained, and what is my current status?
One of the first and most intimidating hurdles was forging friendships. This is frequently one of the most daunting aspects of commencing university, and if you are an incoming student, it may be a significant worry for you. On my first day moving into my residence, a few days before the semester kicked off, I spent the whole day in my room, too scared to step out and meet others. Today, I can proudly say that I’ve made some of the finest friends I’ve ever had, right here at this university and within my course. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, and it all began with casual conversations with others in similar positions. So, what did I discover? I found that taking a risk at the beginning of the year is beneficial. If you’re not entirely prepared or at ease, don’t fret! There will be an abundance of ice-breaking events to assist you in connecting with others. I also learned that authenticity is essential. With so many varied individuals across the course and university, you’re certain to encounter people who resonate with you.
Another obstacle was the demanding workload and complexity of the content. There was certainly a significant shift from A-levels, and in some respects, an even larger leap from the first term to the second. Being in such an environment can challenge your self-esteem; you might witness others studying and feel insufficient. A few strategies helped me navigate this, one being the reminder that everyone is experiencing the same challenges. If something confuses you, I can nearly guarantee that others are bewildered too. So, seek assistance. This may be the most vital lesson to grasp in your first year. Ask for help from your classmates and the faculty!
This leads me to my next point. The faculty in Materials are remarkable. They genuinely want you to thrive and recognize the challenges that students encounter. They show empathy towards students and sustain regular communication with us throughout the year regarding our concerns. I didn’t fully take advantage of the pastoral support until the year’s end, but I wish I had utilized it earlier. I spoke of taking risks before – I took one at the beginning of the year by becoming a year well-being representative. This position allowed me to build relationships with the staff, which is incredibly beneficial. There are numerous ways to connect with faculty, and it’s one of the best actions you can take for yourself! My key takeaway from this aspect of university life is to make the most of the assistance provided. There’s no such thing as receiving too much help!
In summary, this year has shown me that anxious feelings, both prior to and during university, are often baseless and can be mitigated with the many support resources available from staff and fellow students. It has illustrated that I am never truly alone and how to find joy even amidst pressures such as exams and deadlines.