Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Merely ten months prior, in October 2022, I was filled with anxiety, doubt, and a hint of being overwhelmed as I geared up to commence my studies in Materials Science and Engineering at Imperial. As someone who has typically been shy and introverted, plunging into a new setting felt intimidating. Reflecting on that time now, I recognize a year brimming with personal development, obstacles, and memorable moments. So, what insights have I gained, and what is my current status?
One of the initial—and most intimidating—hurdles I encountered was forming new friendships. If you are an incoming student, this might be a concern for you as well. I recall my first day in student housing, where I secluded myself in my room, too anxious to venture out and meet anyone. Fast forward to now, and I can state with confidence that I’ve forged some of the most meaningful friendships of my life—friends who have become like family. What was the key? Simply initiating brief conversations with others who were equally new and nervous. My crucial takeaway: make the effort early on. Even if you feel unprepared, numerous icebreakers and activities are available to facilitate connections. Above all, be authentic. With such a varied student population, you are bound to encounter individuals with whom you resonate.
Another significant change was managing the academic workload and transitioning from A-levels. The increase in demands was evident, and the shift from the first term to the second was even more pronounced. It’s easy to feel as though you’re lagging behind when you observe peers studying with confidence. However, the reality is that everyone faces challenges at some point. If you’re puzzled by a topic, there’s a good chance others are too. Don’t hesitate to seek assistance—be it from fellow students or faculty. Learning to ask for help was one of the most essential abilities I honed during my first year.
Speaking of assistance, the faculty within the Materials department has been outstanding. They genuinely care about the success of their students and show great understanding toward the difficulties we encounter. Throughout the year, they kept communication open, ready to lend an ear and offer guidance. While I only fully utilized the pastoral support available later in the year, I wish I had sought it out earlier. In the beginning, I took a bold step by becoming a year well-being representative, which helped me foster relationships with staff—a thoroughly gratifying opportunity. There are many avenues to interact with faculty, and doing so can significantly alter your experience. My recommendation: fully embrace the available support systems. You can never have enough assistance!
In summary, this past year has shown me that the apprehension I experienced—both before and during my university journey—was often baseless. Thanks to the extensive support from both staff and fellow students, I learned that I was never truly isolated. Most importantly, I discovered how to strike a balance between diligent work and having fun, even during high-pressure moments like exams and submission deadlines.