Authored 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 brink of starting my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Immersing myself in the unfamiliar was not something my formerly shy and reserved self was used to. Looking back now, I recognize a year filled with personal development, challenges, and a great deal of enjoyment! But what insights have I gained this year, and what is my current position?
One of the first and most intimidating hurdles was forming friendships. This often ranks among the most daunting parts of commencing university, and if you are a prospective student reading this, it might be one of your major worries. On my initial day moving into my residence, a couple of days before classes commenced, I spent the whole day concealed in my room, too nervous to venture out and meet others. Yet, sitting here now, I can wholeheartedly affirm that I have forged some of the finest friendships I’ve ever had at this university and in this program. I’ve discovered a second family here at Imperial, and it all began with casual conversations with individuals in similar situations. So, what did I grasp? I realized that it’s always better to take a jump at the start of the year. If you’re not entirely prepared or at ease, don’t fret! There will be numerous ice-breaking chances and events to assist you in connecting with others. I also recognized that if there’s one thing you can be, it’s yourself. With so many varied individuals across the program and university, you are bound to encounter those who connect with you.
Another obstacle was the workload and the challenging nature of the content. There was a significant leap from A-levels, and in some respects, an even more substantial leap from the first term to the second. Being thrown into such a setting can be daunting for your confidence; you might observe others studying and feel inferior. Several factors aided me in overcoming that sensation, one being the reminder that everyone is in the same position. If you don’t grasp something, I can nearly assure you that others don’t either. So, seek assistance. This could be the single most crucial lesson to learn in the first year. Seek help from your peers as well as the faculty!
This leads me to my next point. The faculty in Materials are phenomenal. They genuinely want you to thrive and understand that students face challenges. They empathize with students and maintain ongoing communication with us throughout the year about 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 sooner. I mentioned earlier about taking leaps – I initiated one at the beginning of the year by becoming a year well-being representative. This role enabled me to build relationships with the faculty members, which is incredibly beneficial. There are many ways to connect with staff, and it’s undoubtedly one of the best things you can do for yourself! My primary takeaway from this aspect of university is to seize the assistance available. You can never have too much!
Overall, this year has taught me that anxious feelings, both before and during university, are frequently unfounded and can be alleviated with the myriad support options provided by staff and fellow students. It has demonstrated to me that I am never alone and how to find enjoyment even amidst stressors such as exams and deadlines.