Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Almost a year ago, in October 2022, I was filled with anxiety and uncertainty about the future. I was embarking on my journey in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Venturing into the unknown was not something my previously timid self was used to. Looking back now, I recognize a year full of personal development, obstacles, and a lot of enjoyment! So, what have I discovered, and where do I stand now?
One of the first and most intimidating hurdles was forming friendships. This can be among the most nerve-wracking aspects of entering university, and if you’re an incoming student, it might weigh heavily on your mind. On my initial day of moving into my dormitory, just days ahead of the semester starting, I spent all day in my room, too daunted to step out and meet new people. Now, I am proud to say that I’ve forged some of the best friendships here at university and within my program. I’ve found a second family at Imperial, all beginning with casual conversations with others in similar circumstances. What have I learned? It’s beneficial to take the plunge at the beginning of the year. If you’re feeling unprepared or uneasy, don’t stress! There are numerous ice-breaker activities designed to help you connect with others. Also, be authentic. With such a diverse population throughout the course and the university, you are sure to discover those who share your interests.
An additional challenge was the workload and the complexity of the coursework. The transition from A-levels was significant, and the shift from the first to the second term was even greater. Being in such a setting can be detrimental to your self-esteem; you might feel less capable in comparison to your peers. What aided me was the reminder that everyone is navigating the same challenges. If you find something confusing, chances are others do too. Therefore, reach out for support. This may be the most essential lesson from the first year. Don’t hesitate to seek help from classmates and faculty!
This brings me to my next point. The professors in Materials are remarkable. They genuinely want to see you succeed and understand the challenges faced by students. They are compassionate and keep open lines of communication regarding our concerns. I didn’t utilize the pastoral support until the year was nearly over, but I wish I had done so earlier. I mentioned taking risks earlier – I took one by becoming a well-being representative for my year. This position helped me to connect with the staff, which is incredibly valuable. There are various avenues to familiarize yourself with the staff, and it’s one of the best choices you can make for your well-being! My primary takeaway is to fully utilize the assistance available. You can never have too much support!
In summary, this year demonstrated to me that feelings of nervousness about university are often unfounded and can be diminished with the help from both staff and fellow students. I’ve learned that I am never alone and how to find joy amidst the pressure of exams and deadlines.