By Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I was filled with anxiety and uncertainty regarding the future as I readied myself to embark on my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a first-year student. Venturing into the unknown was not something my previously introverted self was familiar with. Looking back now, I recognize a year brimming with personal development, obstacles, and enjoyment. But what insights have I gained, and what is my current situation?
One of the primary hurdles was making friends, an intimidating endeavor for new university students. On my first day in my accommodations, I remained in my room, too scared to reach out to others. Today, I can wholeheartedly say I’ve formed some of the best friendships here, creating a second family at Imperial. It began with casual conversations with fellow students in similar circumstances. The takeaway? Embrace the initial leap at the beginning of the year. If you’re not prepared, there are numerous ice-breakers and events designed to facilitate connections. Just be yourself; amidst such a diverse crowd, you’ll discover others like you.
An additional challenge was the volume of work and the complexity of the material, a significant step up from A-levels and an even larger jump from the first to the second term. It’s easy to feel self-doubt when it appears others are grasping concepts more swiftly. Keep in mind, everyone is navigating the same waters. If you’re struggling to comprehend a topic, it’s likely others are too. Seek assistance from peers and faculty—it’s vital in your first year.
The staff within the Materials department are exceptional, genuinely wishing to see students thrive and understanding the challenges they face. They consistently communicate about student concerns. I didn’t utilize pastoral support until later on, but I wish I had taken advantage of it earlier. I took the bold step of becoming a year well-being representative, which connected me with staff—a valuable experience. There are numerous ways to engage with faculty, and it’s one of the best choices you can make. Make the most of the assistance available; there’s no such thing as too much!
This year revealed to me that the apprehensions surrounding university are frequently unfounded and can be mitigated with support from both staff and peers. It demonstrated that I’m never truly alone and taught me to find joy despite the pressures from exams and deadlines.