Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Almost a year ago, in October 2022, I found myself anxious, apprehensive, and unsure about what lay ahead. I was on the verge of starting my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a newcomer. Venturing into the unfamiliar wasn’t something my formerly shy and reserved self was used to. Looking back now, I see a year filled with personal development, obstacles, and plenty of enjoyable moments! But what insights have I gained, and what is my current situation?
One of the earliest and most challenging hurdles I encountered was forming friendships. This is undoubtedly one of the more daunting elements of beginning university, and if you’re a prospective student reading this, it may be one of your primary worries. On my initial day moving into my accommodation, a few days before classes started, I spent the entire day concealed in my room, too daunted to venture out and introduce myself to others. However, as I sit here now, I can assert that I’ve made some of the finest friends I’ve ever had at this university and within this course. I’ve discovered a second family here at Imperial, and it all commenced with engaging in small talk with individuals in similar situations. So, what did I discover? I learned that it’s always beneficial to take a chance at the beginning of the year. If you don’t feel prepared or at ease, don’t fret! There will be numerous ice-breaking occasions and events to assist you in connecting with others. I also learned that if you can be anything, be genuine. With such a diverse range of individuals across the course and university, you’re sure to encounter like-minded peers.
Another obstacle was handling the workload and the difficulty of the content. There was certainly a noticeable increase from A-levels, and in some respects, an even greater jump from the first term to the second. Being thrust into such an atmosphere isn’t always easy on your confidence; you might observe others studying and feel inferior. A few strategies helped me to overcome that feeling, one being the reminder that everyone is facing similar challenges. If you don’t grasp something, I can almost assure you that there are others who also find it difficult to understand. So, don’t hesitate to ask for assistance. This may be the most crucial lesson to learn in the first year. Seek help from your peers and the faculty!
This leads me to my next point. The faculty in Materials are exceptional. They genuinely want you to thrive and recognize that students encounter difficulties. They empathize with students and maintain regular communication with us throughout the year regarding our concerns. I didn’t truly utilize the pastoral support until the end of the year, but I wish I had taken advantage of it earlier. I mentioned taking leaps at the beginning; I took one by becoming a year well-being representative. This role enabled me to connect with the faculty members, which is incredibly valuable. There are many avenues to get acquainted with the staff, and it’s undoubtedly one of the best actions you can take for your own benefit! My primary takeaway from this facet of university is to make the most of the assistance being provided to you. You can never have too much!
In summary, this year has imparted to me that feelings of unease, both prior to and during university, are often unfounded and can be mitigated by the various support options provided by faculty and fellow students. It has shown me that I’m never alone and how to have a good time despite pressures like exams and deadlines.