Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Nearly a year ago, in October 2022, I was filled with nervousness, fear, and uncertainty regarding what lay ahead. I was on the brink of starting my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Venturing into the unknown was not something my formerly shy and reserved self was familiar with. Looking back now, I recognize a year brimming with personal development, challenges, and a great deal of enjoyment! But what insights have I gained from this year, and what is my current position?
One of the first and most overwhelming hurdles was forming friendships. This is frequently one of the most daunting aspects of commencing university, and if you’re an incoming student, it may be a significant worry for you. On my first day moving into my accommodation, a few days prior to the semester starting, I spent the whole day retreating in my room, daunted by the idea of venturing out and introducing myself. However, today, I can assert with confidence that I’ve made some of the finest friends I’ve ever had, both here at university and in my course. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, all of which began with casual conversations with others experiencing similar circumstances. So, what did I come to understand? I realized that taking a chance at the beginning of the year is always best. If you feel unprepared or uneasy, don’t fret! There will be numerous ice-breaking opportunities and events to facilitate connections with others. I also discovered that staying true to oneself is essential. With such a wide range of diverse individuals across the course and university, you are sure to find others who resonate with you.
Another obstacle was the intensity of the workload and the difficulty of the material. There was certainly a significant transition from A-levels, and to some extent, an even greater leap from the first term to the second. Being thrust into such a setting can be challenging for your self-esteem; you might observe others studying and feel insufficient. A few strategies helped me navigate through that feeling, one being the reminder that everyone shares similar experiences. If you don’t grasp a concept, I can almost assure you that others don’t either. So, don’t hesitate to ask for assistance. This may be the most crucial lesson to internalize in the first year. Seek help from your fellow students and the faculty!
This leads me to my subsequent point. The faculty in Materials are remarkable. They genuinely want you to thrive and recognize the challenges students endure. They empathize with students and keep open lines of communication with us regarding our concerns throughout the year. I didn’t fully take advantage of the pastoral support until later in the year, but I wish I had done so sooner. I mentioned taking chances earlier – I took one at the outset of the year by becoming a year well-being representative. This position enabled me to build rapport with the faculty, which is extremely beneficial. There are myriad ways to connect with faculty, and it is one of the best choices you can make for yourself! My primary takeaway from this facet of university life is to seize the available help. You can never have too much!
In conclusion, this year has taught me that feelings of anxiety, both prior to and during university, are often unfounded and can be mitigated through the various support resources provided by faculty and fellow students. It has shown me that I am never alone and how to find enjoyment even amidst pressures like exams and deadlines.