Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Back in October 2022, a little over ten months ago, I experienced feelings of anxiety, fear, and uncertainty about what lay ahead. I was preparing to embark on my journey in Materials Science and Engineering as a new student. Venturing into the unfamiliar was not something my previously quiet and introverted self was used to. Reflecting on the past year, I recognize it as a time brimming with personal growth, obstacles, and enjoyment! But what insights have I gained, and what is my current standing?
One of the initial and most daunting hurdles was forming friendships. This is certainly one of the more intimidating facets of starting university, and if you’re a prospective student reading this, it may be a primary concern for you. On my first day settling into my living arrangements, just days before the term commenced, I spent the entire day secluded in my room, daunted by the thought of stepping out and meeting new people. Today, I can proudly state that I’ve forged some of the best friendships I’ve ever known here at this university and in this program. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, and it all began with casual conversations with others in similar situations. So, what did I discover? I realized that taking a chance at the beginning of the year is always the best approach. If you’re not feeling prepared or at ease, don’t fret! There will be ample opportunities for ice-breaking and events designed to help you mingle with others. I also recognized that if there’s one thing to be, it’s yourself. With such a diverse crowd at the university and within the course, you are sure to find others who resonate with you.
An additional challenge was the intensity of the coursework and the complexity of the material. There was certainly a noticeable leap from A-levels, and in some respects, an even greater shift from the first term to the second. Being immersed in such a challenging setting isn’t always conducive to confidence; you may observe your peers studying and start to feel inadequate. A few strategies helped me navigate those feelings, including the reminder that everyone is experiencing similar challenges. If you find something perplexing, I can almost guarantee that there are others who share the same confusion. Therefore, don’t hesitate to seek assistance. This might be the most crucial lesson to grasp during your first year. Reach out for help from your classmates and the faculty!
This brings me to my next point. The faculty in Materials are exceptional. They genuinely want you to succeed and recognize that students face difficulties. They empathize with the student body and maintain ongoing communication with us throughout the year regarding our challenges. I didn’t fully engage with the pastoral support until later in the year, but I wish I had taken advantage of it earlier. I previously mentioned taking leaps – I took one at the beginning of the year by becoming a well-being representative for my year. This role allowed me to connect with the faculty members, which is incredibly beneficial. There are multiple avenues to familiarize yourself with the staff, and it’s undoubtedly one of the best things you can do for your own benefit! My primary takeaway from this element of university life is to make the most of the assistance available to you. You can never have too much support!
Overall, this year has reinforced for me that feelings of nervousness, both preceding and during university, are mostly unfounded and can be eased by the numerous support options provided by staff and fellow students. It has shown me that I’m never alone, and taught me how to enjoy my time while navigating challenges such as exams and deadlines.