Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, fear, and uncertainty about what lay ahead. I was on the verge of starting my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Taking such a significant leap was unfamiliar to my previously introverted and reserved nature. Looking back now, I recognize a year filled with personal development, challenges, and a great deal of enjoyment! So, what insights have I gained this year, and what is my current position?
One of the first and most intimidating hurdles was forming friendships. This often represents one of the most frightening aspects of beginning university, and if you’re an incoming student, it might be a considerable concern for you. On my initial day moving into my residence, just days prior to the start of the term, I spent all day in my room, too daunted to venture out and introduce myself. However, today I can confidently state that I’ve formed some of the best friendships here at university and within my program. I’ve found a second family at Imperial, and it all began with simple conversations with others in similar situations. So, what did I discover? I learned that taking a step forward at the start of the year is always advantageous. If you’re not ready or comfortable, don’t fret! There will be many ice-breaker activities to facilitate your connection with others. I also realized that being authentic is essential. With such a variety of individuals throughout the course and university, you are sure to encounter like-minded individuals.
Another obstacle was the volume of work and complexity of the content. There was indeed a noticeable increase from A-levels, and even more so from the first term to the second. Being in such an environment can be challenging for your self-esteem; you might observe others studying and feel less competent. What aided me was the reminder that everyone is experiencing similar challenges. If something is unclear, I can almost assure you that others are in the same situation. So, don’t hesitate to seek assistance. This could be the most vital lesson to grasp in the first year. Reach out for help from your classmates and the faculty!
This brings me to my next observation. The faculty in Materials are exceptional. They genuinely want you to thrive and comprehend the difficulties students endure. They show understanding and maintain open lines of communication with us regarding our concerns. I didn’t fully leverage the pastoral support until late in the year, but I wish I had utilized it earlier. I talked about taking leaps earlier – I took one by becoming a year well-being representative. This position enabled me to foster relationships with the staff, which is immensely beneficial. There are numerous avenues to engage with the faculty, and it’s one of the best things you can do for your well-being! My primary lesson from this is to take full advantage of the support available. You can never have too much!
In summary, this year has revealed to me that the anxious feelings prior to and during university are often unwarranted and can be eased through the various support systems provided by faculty and fellow students. It has shown me that I am never alone and taught me how to relish my time despite pressures like exams and deadlines.