Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months prior, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, fear, and uncertainty regarding what lay ahead. As I was about to embark on my journey in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman, stepping into the unknown was far from familiar territory for my once-timid and reserved self. Looking back now, I recognize a year filled with personal development, challenges, and a lot of enjoyment! But what insights have I gained this year, and where do I stand now?
One of the foremost and most intimidating hurdles was forging friendships. This is frequently one of the most daunting parts of commencing university, and if you are reading this as a potential student, it may be one of your primary concerns. On my first day of settling into my accommodation, a few days before the semester started, I spent the whole day sequestered in my room, too daunted to step out and introduce myself to others. However, reflecting on my experience today, I can assertively claim that I’ve made some of the closest friends I’ve ever had, both at this university and in this program. I’ve discovered a second family here at Imperial, and it all initiated with engaging in small talk with others in similar circumstances. So, what did I grasp? I learned that taking a chance at the beginning of the year is always advisable. If you don’t feel quite prepared or at ease, don’t fret! There will be ample ice-breaking chances and events designed to facilitate connections with others. I also realized that if there’s one thing you should be, it’s yourself. There’s a diverse array of individuals throughout the course and university; you’re certain to discover people who resonate with you.
Another challenge was the workload and the complexity of the material. There was indeed a noticeable increase from A-levels, and in some aspects, an even greater leap from the first term to the second. Being thrust into such a demanding setting can sometimes shake your confidence; you might observe others studying and feel inferior. A few things helped me navigate that sensation, one being the reminder that everybody is experiencing the same journey. If you find something difficult to grasp, I can almost guarantee others are in the same position. Therefore, don’t hesitate to seek assistance. This might be the most crucial lesson to learn in your first year. Reach out for help from your classmates and the faculty!
This leads me to my next observation. The faculty in Materials are exceptional. They genuinely want you to thrive and are aware that students face challenges. They empathize with us and maintain continual communication throughout the year regarding our concerns. 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 referred to earlier about seizing opportunities – I did take a step at the beginning of the year by becoming a year well-being representative. This role granted me the chance to connect with faculty members, which is immensely beneficial. There are numerous avenues to familiarize yourself with staff, and it’s undoubtedly one of the best actions you can take for yourself! My primary lesson from this aspect of university life is to take full advantage of the assistance available to you. You can never have too much!
In a broader sense, this year has taught me that feelings of nervousness, both prior to and during university, are nearly always baseless and can be mitigated by the vast array of support options provided by faculty and fellow students. It has shown me that I’m never alone, and it has taught me how to find enjoyment even amid stressors like exams and deadlines.