Composed by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Nearly a year ago, in October 2022, I felt anxious and uncertain about what lay ahead as I embarked on my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Venturing into the unfamiliar was not something my once-timid self was used to. Looking back on the previous academic year, I view it as a time of personal development, obstacles, and pleasure. But what insights have I gained, and what is my current standing?
One of the first and most intimidating hurdles was meeting new people. This is often a significant worry for incoming university students, and if you’re considering enrolling, you may be pondering this as well. On my initial day moving into my residence, just days prior to classes commencing, I spent the whole day in my room, too scared to venture out and introduce myself. Now, I can proudly say that I’ve established some of the most meaningful friendships here at the university and in my program. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, which started with casual conversations with others in like circumstances. The takeaway? It’s important to take a step forward at the beginning of the year. If you’re not prepared, don’t fret! There are numerous ice-breaking activities to facilitate connections with others. And keep in mind, just be yourself. With so many varied individuals at the university, you’re bound to find those who resonate with you.
Another obstacle was juggling the workload and the complexity of the material. There was a noticeable transition from A-levels, followed by an even steeper climb from the first term to the second. Being in such an atmosphere can be harsh on your self-esteem; you may feel insufficient compared to your peers. What supported me was the realization that everyone is facing similar struggles. If something doesn’t make sense to you, it likely doesn’t to others as well. So, don’t hesitate to seek assistance. This may be the most vital skill to cultivate in your freshman year. Seek guidance from classmates and faculty!
This leads me to my next observation: the faculty in Materials are outstanding. They genuinely want you to thrive and recognize the hurdles students encounter. They show empathy and keep open lines of communication regarding our concerns. I didn’t fully tap into the pastoral support until late in the year, but I wish I had done so earlier. I mentioned taking bold steps before – I indeed took one by becoming a year well-being representative. This position enabled me to get acquainted with the faculty, which is immensely beneficial. There are various avenues to engage with the staff, and it’s one of the best benefits you can provide for yourself! My key takeaway is to fully utilize the support that is available. You can never have too much!
In summary, this year has demonstrated to me that the apprehensive feelings prior to and during university are often exaggerated and can be mitigated by the support provided by faculty and fellow students. I’ve come to understand that I am never alone and have learned how to have a good time despite the stresses of exams and deadlines.