Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I felt anxious and uncertain about what lay ahead. I was poised to start my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Venturing into the unfamiliar was not something my once-timid self was used to. Looking back now, I recognize a year brimming with personal development, hurdles, and a great deal of enjoyment! But what have I discovered, and where do I stand now?
One of the initial and most intimidating obstacles was forging friendships. This is frequently one of the most daunting aspects of commencing university, and if you’re an incoming student, it might be your greatest worry. On my first day moving into my housing, a few days prior to the start of classes, I spent the whole day in my room, too fearful to venture out and meet others. Now, I can proudly say that I have formed some of the strongest friendships here at university and in my program. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, and it all began with casual conversations with others in similar situations. So, what have I gleaned? I learned that taking a risk at the beginning of the year is always beneficial. If you don’t feel prepared or at ease, don’t stress! There will be numerous ice-breaker activities to assist you in connecting with others. I also discovered that being true to yourself is essential. With a diverse range of individuals in the program and university, you’re bound to encounter people who share your interests.
An additional challenge was the intensity of the workload and the complexity of the content. There was undoubtedly a leap from A-levels, and an even larger leap from the first to the second term. Navigating such an environment can be challenging for your self-esteem; you might observe others studying and feel insufficient. What aided me was the reminder that everyone is experiencing similar challenges. If you don’t grasp something, it’s likely that others are struggling too. Therefore, don’t hesitate to ask for assistance. This may be the most crucial lesson to embrace in your first year. Seek guidance from your classmates and the faculty!
This leads me to my next point. The faculty in Materials are remarkable. They genuinely desire for you to excel and acknowledge that students face difficulties. They empathize with us and maintain ongoing communication throughout the year regarding our issues. I didn’t utilize the pastoral support until later in the year, but I wish I had taken advantage of it earlier. I mentioned taking risks previously – I did take one by becoming a year well-being representative. This position enabled me to connect with the faculty, which is incredibly beneficial. There are numerous ways to engage with the faculty, and it’s one of the best choices you can make for yourself! My key takeaway is to seize the opportunities for support that are available. You can never have too much help!
In summary, this year has demonstrated to me that feelings of anxiety, both before and during university, are often baseless and can be mitigated with the support available from staff and fellow students. It has taught me that I am never alone and how to have a good time despite pressures like exams and deadlines.