Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Back in October 2022, ten months ago, 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 novice student. Venturing into the unfamiliar wasn’t something my previously shy and reserved nature was used to. Looking back, I recognize a year filled with personal development, challenges, and a lot of enjoyment! So, what insights have I gained this year, and what is my current situation?
One of the first and most intimidating challenges was forming friendships. This can be one of the most daunting parts of beginning university, and if you are perusing this as a future student, it might be among your primary concerns. On my initial day of moving into my residence, a few days before classes started, I spent the whole day sequestered in my room, too daunted to step out and introduce myself to anyone. However, today, I can proudly state that I’ve developed some of the best friendships I’ve ever had, here at this university and in this program. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, which all initiated with some casual conversations with others in the same boat. So, what did I take away from this experience? I realized it’s crucial to take a chance at the beginning of the year. If you feel unprepared or uneasy, don’t fret! There will be numerous ice-breaker occasions and activities to aid in connecting with others. I’ve also come to understand that if there’s one thing you can be, it’s authentic. With such a diverse group of individuals throughout the program and university, you’re sure to find people who resonate with you.
Another challenge was the rigors of the workload and the complexity of the content. Transitioning from A-levels was definitely significant, and in some aspects, there was an even greater leap from the first term to the second. Being thrust into such a setting isn’t always kind to your self-esteem; you might observe others studying and feel inadequate. A few strategies helped me through that feeling, one being the reminder that everyone is navigating the same challenges. If you find something confusing, I can nearly assure you that there are others who feel the same way. So, seek assistance. This might be the single most crucial lesson to grasp in your first year. Don’t hesitate to ask for help from your classmates and the faculty!
This leads me to my next point. The faculty in Materials is extraordinary. They genuinely want you to thrive and recognize that students face difficulties. They show compassion toward students and maintain open lines of communication with us throughout the year regarding our challenges. I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support until the end of the year, but I wish I had taken advantage of it earlier. I mentioned earlier about taking leaps – I took one at the start of the year by becoming a year well-being representative. This role enabled me to connect with the staff, which is incredibly beneficial. There are numerous ways to engage with staff, and it’s certainly among the best decisions you can make for yourself! My main takeaway from this aspect of university life is to leverage the assistance you’re provided. You can never have too much support!
In summary, this year has shown me that feelings of nervousness, both in anticipation of and while attending university, are typically unwarranted and can be mitigated through the various support resources available from faculty and fellow students. It has taught me that I’m never isolated and how to find enjoyment amidst pressures such as exams and deadlines.