Authored 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 on the verge of starting my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Making the leap into the unknown was not something my previously introverted and quiet self was used to. Looking back now, I recognize a year filled with personal development, obstacles, and a lot of enjoyment! But what insights have I gained, and where do I find myself today?
One of the first and most intimidating obstacles was building friendships. This is one of the more frightening facets of beginning university, and if you’re an incoming student, it might be a significant worry. On my initial day of moving into my new place, a few days before classes commenced, I spent the whole day concealed in my room, too daunted to step outside and meet others. Today, however, I can assertively state that I’ve forged some of the greatest friendships here at university and within my course. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, and it all commenced with engaging in small talk with others in comparable circumstances. So, what did I come to understand? I realized that it’s advisable to take a chance at the start of the year. If you don’t feel prepared or at ease, don’t fret! There will be numerous ice-breaking opportunities and events to assist you in connecting with peers. I also discovered that if you can embody one thing, be yourself. With such a diverse range of people across the course and university, you’re sure to encounter like-minded individuals.
Another challenge was the workload and the difficulty of the material. There was undoubtedly a leap from A-levels, and in some respects, an even more significant transition from the first term to the second. Being placed in such a setting can challenge your self-esteem; you might observe others studying and feel inadequate. A few strategies aided me through this, one being the reminder that everyone is experiencing the same struggles. If you don’t grasp something, I can almost assure you others don’t either. So, seek assistance. This could very well be the most crucial lesson to learn in the first year. Request help from your classmates and the staff!
This leads me to my subsequent point. The faculty in Materials are remarkable. They genuinely wish for your success and recognize the challenges students encounter. They empathize with students and maintain ongoing communication throughout the year about any issues. I didn’t make full use of the pastoral support until the year’s end, but I wish I had done so earlier. Earlier, I mentioned taking chances – I took one by becoming a year well-being representative. This role enabled me to connect with the staff, which is incredibly important. There are numerous ways to engage with faculty, and it’s one of the most beneficial actions you can take for yourself! My primary takeaway from this aspect of university is to seize the available support. You can never have too much guidance!
In summary, this year has shown me that anxious feelings, both prior to and during university, are often baseless and can be mitigated by the support options provided by staff and fellow students. It’s taught me that I’m never alone and how to have fun despite pressures such as exams and deadlines.