Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Nine months ago, in October 2022, I found myself feeling anxious, fearful, and uncertain about what lay ahead. I was on the brink of starting my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a newcomer. Stepping into the unknown was not something my previously introverted and quiet self was used to. Looking back now, I see a year that has been filled with personal development, obstacles, and a lot of enjoyment! But what insights have I gained this year, and what is my current standing?
One of the most intimidating challenges was forming friendships. This is often one of the most frightening aspects of commencing university, and if you are a prospective student reading this, it might be one of your foremost concerns. On my first day of moving into my residence, days before classes commenced, I spent the entire day retreating in my room, too fearful to venture out and introduce myself to anyone. However, as I sit here today, I can assert that I have forged some of the closest friendships I’ve ever had, right here at this university and within this program. I have discovered a second family at Imperial, and it all commenced with casual conversations with individuals in similar situations. So, what did I discover? I learned that it’s always beneficial 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 ample ice-breaking chances and events to facilitate connections with others. I also realized that if there’s one thing you should be, it’s yourself. With such a diverse mix of individuals throughout the course and university, you’re sure to encounter people who resonate with you.
An additional hurdle was managing the workload and the difficulty of the material. There was certainly a leap from A-levels, and in some respects, an even greater leap from the first term to the second. Being thrust into such a setting can challenge your confidence; you might notice others studying and feel inadequate. A few strategies helped me cope with that feeling, one being the reminder that everyone is navigating similar challenges. If you don’t understand something, I can nearly promise that there are at least a few other individuals who are also struggling to grasp it. So, seek assistance. This may be the single most crucial lesson to learn during your first year. Reach out to your peers and the faculty for help!
This leads me to my next point. The faculty in Materials are exceptional. They truly desire for you to thrive and recognize that students face difficulties. They show understanding towards students and keep in touch with us throughout the year regarding our concerns. I didn’t really take advantage of the pastoral support until later in the year, but I wish I had done so earlier. I mentioned taking risks before – I did take one at the start of the year by becoming a well-being representative for my year. This role enabled me to connect with the faculty members, which is immensely valuable. There are numerous opportunities to engage with staff, and it is certainly one of the best actions you can take for yourself! My primary lesson from this aspect of university life is to make the most of the available support. There’s no such thing as too much!
In summary, this year has taught me that feelings of apprehension, both prior to and during university, are often baseless and can be alleviated with the many support options provided by staff and fellow students. It has shown me that I’m never truly alone and how to find enjoyment amid stressors like exams and deadlines.