Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
In October 2022, ten months ago, I felt nervous and uncertain about what lay ahead. I was on the verge of starting my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Stepping into the unknown was not something my previously reserved self was familiar with. Reflecting on the past year, I recognize it as a time of personal development, challenges, and enjoyment! But what insights have I gained, and what is my current state?
One of the initial and most intimidating hurdles was forging friendships. This aspect of commencing university often brings anxiety, and if you’re considering this path, it could be a significant worry. On the day I moved into my accommodation, prior to the term commencing, I remained in my room the whole day, feeling too daunted to venture out and meet others. Now, I can proudly state that I’ve formed some of the most cherished friendships here at university and in my course. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, beginning with casual conversations with peers in similar circumstances. What did I discover? It’s essential to take the plunge at the start of the year. If you’re not prepared, don’t fret! There will be social events to facilitate connections with others. Additionally, be true to yourself. With such a wide array of individuals at the university, you’re sure to find those who resonate with you.
Another obstacle was the demands of the coursework and the complexity of the content. There was a significant transition from A-levels, and even more so from the first to the second term. Being in such an environment can challenge your self-esteem; you might feel inadequate in comparison to your peers. Keep in mind that everyone is experiencing the same situation. If something is unclear to you, it’s likely others don’t grasp it either. Therefore, don’t hesitate to seek assistance. This is vital in the initial year. Reach out to classmates and faculty!
This brings me to my next point. The staff in the Materials department are exceptional. They genuinely want you to thrive and are aware of the challenges faced by students. They keep in touch with us throughout the year regarding our concerns. I didn’t utilize the pastoral support until the year’s end, but I regret not engaging sooner. I took the initiative to become a well-being representative for my year. This position helped me connect with faculty, which is invaluable. There are numerous ways to familiarize yourself with the staff, and this is among the best actions you can take! My primary lesson is to make the most of the assistance available. You can never receive too much help!
In summary, this year has shown me that anxious feelings surrounding university are typically unfounded and can be diminished with support from both staff and peers. I’ve realized that I’m never truly alone and have learned how to have fun despite the pressures of exams and deadlines.