Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months back, 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. Diving into the unknown wasn’t something my previously timid and introverted self was used to. Looking back now, I recognize it as a year of personal development, obstacles, and a lot of enjoyment! But what have I discovered, and where do I stand now?
One of the initial and most intimidating hurdles was making friends. This is often one of the most daunting aspects of beginning university, and for prospective students, it might be a significant worry. On my first day of moving into housing, just days before classes started, I spent the whole day in my room, too scared to go out and meet others. Now, I can proudly state that I’ve made some of the best friends here at university and in my program. I’ve found a second family at Imperial, and it all sparked with casual conversations with those in similar positions. So, what did I gain from this experience? I realized that it’s important to take a risk at the beginning of the year. If you don’t feel prepared or at ease, don’t fret! There will be numerous ice-breaking events to assist you in connecting with others. I also discovered that being true to yourself is essential. With so many diverse individuals across the program and university, you are sure to find those who resonate with you.
Another significant challenge was the intensity of the workload and the complexity of the material. There was undoubtedly a jump from A-levels, and in some aspects, an even larger leap from the first term to the second. Being in such an environment can pose challenges for your confidence; you might observe others studying and feel inadequate. What aided me was the realization that everyone is experiencing the same situation. If you don’t grasp something, I can almost assure you that others don’t either. So, seek assistance. This might be the most vital lesson to embrace in your first year. Reach out to peers and faculty!
This brings me to my next observation. The faculty in Materials are exceptional. They truly want you to succeed and comprehend the challenges students encounter. They show empathy and maintain consistent communication with us throughout the year. I didn’t fully leverage the pastoral support until the year’s end, but I wish I had done so earlier. I mentioned taking risks previously – I took one by becoming a year well-being representative. This position enabled me to connect with faculty members, which is invaluable. There are numerous ways to get acquainted with staff, and it’s one of the best things you can do for yourself! My main message is to make the most of the support provided. You can never have an excess of it!
In summary, this year has shown me that feelings of nervousness, both prior to and during university, are frequently baseless and can be alleviated with the support available from staff and fellow students. It has taught me that I am never alone and how to find joy despite pressures like exams and deadlines.