Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I felt nervous and uncertain about what lay ahead. I was on the brink of starting my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Venturing into the unknown was not something my previously reserved self was used to. Looking back now, I recognize a year brimming with personal development, challenges, and a lot of enjoyable moments! But what lessons did this year impart, and where do I stand today?
One of the foremost and intimidating challenges was forming friendships. This often ranks as one of the most frightening aspects of commencing university, and if you’re an incoming student, it could be one of your primary concerns. On my first day moving into my dormitory, a few days prior to the start of the term, I spent the entire day in my room, too intimidated to venture out and introduce myself to others. Now, I can proudly say that I’ve forged some of the best friendships here at university and within my 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 take away from this? It’s advantageous to take a leap of faith at the beginning of the year. If you’re not prepared or comfortable, don’t stress! There will be ample ice-breaker events to facilitate connections with others. I also realized that embracing your true self is crucial. With such a diverse group of people throughout the course and university, you’re sure to encounter those who resonate with you.
Another hurdle was the volume of work and the difficulty of content. There was indeed a noticeable leap from A-levels, and in certain respects, an even bigger leap from the first term to the second. Being in such an environment doesn’t always bolster your confidence; you might observe others studying and feel less capable. Several aspects aided me in overcoming this sensation, one being the reminder that everyone shares the same experience. If you’re grappling with something, I can nearly guarantee that others are too. Therefore, don’t hesitate to seek assistance. This may be the most vital lesson to internalize during your first year. Reach out to your peers and the faculty!
This brings me to my next point. The faculty in Materials is outstanding. They genuinely want you to thrive and recognize that students face difficulties. They are empathetic towards students and maintain ongoing communication regarding our challenges. I didn’t truly utilize the pastoral support until the end of the year, though I wish I had done so earlier. I mentioned taking leaps – I took one by becoming a year well-being representative. This role allowed me to connect with the faculty, which is tremendously beneficial. There are numerous avenues to engage with faculty, and it’s one of the most advantageous actions you can take for yourself! My primary takeaway from this facet of university is to make the most of the assistance provided. You can never have an excess!
All in all, this year has shown me that anxious feelings, both before and during university, are frequently baseless and can be eased with the support readily available from staff and fellow students. It has revealed that I’m never truly alone and taught me how to find enjoyment amid stressors like exams and deadlines.