Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Almost a year ago, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with nerves, anxiety, and uncertainty regarding what lay ahead. I was about to start my journey in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Venturing into the unknown was not something my naturally shy and introverted self was used to. Looking back now, I realize this year was filled with personal development, hurdles, and a lot of enjoyment! But what insights did this year offer, and what is my position now?
One of the first and most challenging obstacles was forming friendships. This part of beginning university can feel daunting, and if you are an incoming student, it may be a major worry for you. On my initial day settling into my accommodation, a few days prior to the start of classes, I spent the whole day in my room, too intimidated to go out and meet people. However, today I can proudly say I’ve made some of the best friends here at university and in my program. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, and it all began with casual conversations with others in similar circumstances. So, what did I discover? It’s beneficial to take the plunge at the beginning of the year. If you don’t feel prepared or at ease, that’s perfectly fine! There are numerous ice-breaking activities to assist you in connecting with others. I also found that being authentic is essential. With such a diverse community throughout the program and university, you’re sure to encounter individuals who share your mindset.
Another hurdle was handling the workload and the complexity of the content. The transition from A-levels was quite stark, and the leap from the first to the second term was even greater. Being in such an environment can be challenging for your self-esteem; you may observe others studying and feel insufficient. What aided me was the reminder that everyone shares similar experiences. If something isn’t clear to you, it’s likely that others are also confused. Therefore, don’t hesitate to ask for assistance. This may be the most important lesson from the first year. Reach out to peers and faculty!
This brings me to my next point. The faculty in Materials are outstanding. They genuinely want you to thrive and comprehend the challenges students encounter. They show compassion and keep open lines of communication with us regarding our worries. I didn’t fully leverage pastoral resources until the latter part of the year, but I wish I had done so earlier. I mentioned taking chances before – I took one by becoming a year well-being representative. This position enabled me to connect with staff members, which is invaluable. There are plenty of avenues to meet the faculty, and it’s one of the most beneficial choices you can make for yourself! My key lesson is to make the most of the assistance provided. 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 often baseless and can be eased through the various support resources available from faculty and peers. It has demonstrated to me that I am never alone and taught me how to find enjoyment even amidst pressures like exams and deadlines.