By Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months prior, in October 2022, I was filled with anxiety and uncertainty about the future. I was on the verge of starting my Materials Science and Engineering degree as a freshman. Immersing myself in the unfamiliar was not something my previously timid self was used to. Looking back now, I recognize a year rich with personal development, obstacles, and a great deal of enjoyment! But what insights have I gained, and what is my current situation?
One of the first and most intimidating hurdles was forming friendships. This can often be one of the most daunting aspects of commencing university, and if you are an incoming student, it may be a significant worry. On my initial day settling into my residence, a few days prior to the start of classes, I spent the entire day in my room, too intimidated to venture out and meet anyone. Now, I can proudly say I have forged some of the best friendships here at university and within my program. I’ve found a second family at Imperial, and it all initiated with casual conversations with others in the same boat. So, what did I discover? Taking a chance at the beginning of the year is ideal. If you’re not prepared or feel uneasy, don’t stress! There are numerous ice-breaker activities to assist you in connecting with others. I also discovered the importance of being yourself. With so many diverse individuals in the program and throughout the university, you are sure to meet those who share your interests.
Another obstacle was the intensity of the workload and the complexity of the material. There was a definitive leap from A-levels, and an even more significant jump from the first term to the second. Being in such a setting can impact your self-esteem; you may feel less capable compared to your peers. What aided me was the realization that everyone is experiencing similar challenges. If you’re struggling with something, chances are others are as well. So, don’t hesitate to seek assistance. This is arguably the most crucial lesson of the first year. Reach out for guidance from both classmates and faculty!
This leads me to my next point. The faculty within the Materials department are outstanding. They genuinely want you to thrive and comprehend the difficulties students encounter. They provide support and keep open lines of communication regarding our challenges. I didn’t utilize the pastoral resources until late in the year, but I wish I had done so earlier. I mentioned taking risks – I took one by becoming a well-being representative for my year. This position allowed me to connect with the faculty, which is immensely beneficial. There are numerous avenues to interact with faculty, and it’s one of the best things you can do for your own benefit! My primary takeaway is to leverage the resources available to you. There’s no such thing as too much help!
In summary, this year has demonstrated that feelings of nervousness, both prior to and during university, are often unwarranted and can be mitigated with the support from faculty and fellow students. It has taught me that I am never alone and how to find enjoyment even amid the pressures of exams and deadlines.