By Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, fear, and uncertainty regarding the future. I was on the verge of starting my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Venturing into the unknown wasn’t something my previously timid and introverted self was familiar with. Looking back now, I recognize a year filled with personal development, obstacles, and a great deal of enjoyment! But what insights have I gained, and where do I find myself today?
One of the first and most intimidating obstacles was forming friendships. This is frequently one of the most nerve-wracking elements of beginning university, and if you’re an incoming student, it may be a considerable worry. On my first day moving into my dorm, a few days prior to the semester starting, I spent the whole day sequestered in my room, daunted by the idea of stepping out and introducing myself to others. However, today, I can proudly say that I’ve made some of the finest friends I’ve ever had, here at this university and in this program. I’ve created a second family at Imperial, and it all commenced with casual conversations with individuals in similar circumstances. So, what did I take away from this? I realized that taking a chance at the beginning of the year is always advantageous. If you feel uncertain or uneasy, don’t fret! There will be numerous ice-breaking activities and events to assist you in connecting with people. I also learned that authenticity is essential. With so many diverse individuals across the course and university, you’re sure to find those who connect with you.
Another hurdle was the intensity of the workload and the complexity of the content. There was indeed a noticeable increase compared to A-levels, and in some ways, a much larger jump from the first term to the second. Being thrust into such a setting isn’t always easy for your self-esteem; witnessing others studying might leave you feeling inadequate. A few things aided me in overcoming this sensation, one being the reminder that everyone is experiencing the same challenges. If there’s something you don’t grasp, I can nearly assure you that others are in the same situation. Therefore, seek assistance. This might be the most vital skill to cultivate in your first year. Reach out to 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 acknowledge that students encounter obstacles. They show empathy towards students and maintain ongoing communication with us throughout the year regarding our concerns. I didn’t fully leverage the pastoral support until the end of the year, but I wish I had taken advantage of it earlier. I mentioned making leaps earlier – I took one at the beginning of the year by becoming a year well-being representative. This role enabled me to familiarize myself with the faculty members, which is incredibly beneficial. There are numerous ways to engage with faculty, and it’s one of the best decisions you can make for yourself! My primary takeaway from this aspect of university is to make the most of the support available. You can never have too much backing!
In summary, this year has shown me that feelings of anxiety, both before and during university, are often baseless and can be mitigated through the various support systems provided by faculty and fellow students. I’ve learned that I’m never alone and how to find enjoyment despite pressures such as exams and deadlines.