Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Approximately ten months ago, in October 2022, I was filled with anxiety and uncertainty about what lay ahead. I was on the verge of commencing my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Venturing into the unfamiliar was not something my previously reserved self was used to. Looking back over the past year, I recognize a time of significant personal development, challenges, and immense enjoyment! But what have I discovered, and what is my current standing?
One of the first and most intimidating obstacles was forming friendships. This is frequently one of the most daunting elements of starting university, and if you are an incoming student, it might be a substantial worry for you. On my initial day moving into my housing, just a few days before classes started, I spent the entire day in my room, too fearful to exit and interact with others. Now, I can proudly state that I’ve formed some of the finest friendships here at university and within my program. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, and it all initiated with casual conversations with individuals in comparable situations. So, what did I realize? It’s advantageous to take a chance at the beginning of the year. If you don’t feel prepared or at ease, don’t fret! There will be numerous ice-breaker activities to assist you in connecting with others. I also discovered that authenticity is crucial. With such a variety of individuals throughout the course and university, you are sure to find those who resonate with you.
Another obstacle was the academic workload and the difficulty of the material. There was certainly an increase in difficulty compared to A-levels, and even more so from the first term to the second. Being in such an environment can impact your confidence; you might observe others studying and feel insufficient. What supported me was the reminder that everyone is navigating the same situation. If something is unclear to you, it is likely that others are struggling as well. Therefore, ask for assistance. This could be the most vital lesson during the first year. Seek guidance from classmates and faculty!
This brings me to my subsequent point. The faculty in Materials are exceptional. They genuinely want you to excel and grasp the challenges students encounter. They show understanding and maintain regular communication concerning our issues. I didn’t take full advantage of the pastoral support until the year’s end, but I wish I had done so sooner. I mentioned taking risks – I took one by becoming a year well-being representative. This position enabled me to connect with faculty, which is immensely beneficial. There are numerous avenues to engage with staff, and it’s one of the best things you can do for your own benefit! My primary takeaway is to utilize the resources available to you. You can never have too much support!
In summary, this year has shown me that feelings of anxiety, both prior to and during university, are frequently baseless and can be mitigated with the support provided by faculty and fellow students. I’ve learned that I am never alone and how to find enjoyment even amidst stressors such as exams and deadlines.