Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Almost a year ago, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, fear, and uncertainty about what lay ahead. I was on the verge of starting my journey in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Jumping into the unfamiliar was not something my previously introverted and reserved self was accustomed to. Looking back now, I recognize a year filled with personal development, challenges, and a lot of enjoyment! But what insights has this year provided, and what is my current standing?
One of the first and most intimidating hurdles was forming friendships. This is undoubtedly one of the more challenging elements of beginning university, and if you are reading this as a potential student, it might be one of your primary worries. On my initial day moving into my accommodation, just days before the semester commenced, I spent the whole day sequestered in my room, too daunted to venture out and meet others. Today, however, I can assertively say that I’ve formed some of the closest friendships here at university and within my program. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, and it all initiated with casual conversations with others in similar positions. So, what did I gain from this experience? I came to understand that taking a risk at the beginning of the year is always advantageous. If you’re not entirely prepared or at ease, don’t fret! There will be countless ice-breaker activities and events to assist you in connecting with peers. I also realized that if there’s one thing to be, it is yourself. With a broad array of diverse individuals in the course and university, you are sure to find those who resonate with you.
Another obstacle was the intensity of the workload and the complexity of the content. There was undoubtedly a noticeable increase from A-levels, and, in certain aspects, an even more significant jump from the first term to the second. Being thrust into such an atmosphere can challenge your self-esteem; you may observe others studying and feel inadequate. Several factors aided me in navigating this feeling, one being the reminder that everyone shares similar experiences. If you don’t grasp a concept, I can nearly assure you that others are in the same situation. Therefore, don’t hesitate to seek help. This might be the most vital skill to cultivate in the first year. Reach out to your peers and the faculty!
This leads me to my subsequent point. The faculty in Materials are exceptional. They genuinely desire your success and comprehend the challenges students encounter. They empathize with us and maintain consistent communication throughout the year regarding our concerns. I didn’t fully take advantage of the pastoral support until the conclusion of the year, but I wish I had started earlier. I previously mentioned taking risks – I did take one at the beginning of the year by becoming a year well-being representative. This position enabled me to engage with the faculty, which is immensely valuable. There are numerous avenues to connect with the staff, and it is one of the most beneficial things you can do for your well-being! My primary lesson from this aspect of university is to capitalize on the support available. You can never have an excess of it!
In summary, this year has imparted the understanding that anxious feelings, both prior to and during university, are frequently baseless and can be alleviated with the various support resources provided by faculty and fellow students. It has taught me that I am never solitary and how to appreciate myself in the midst of stressors such as exams and deadlines.