Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Nearly a year ago, in October 2022, I was overcome with anxiety, apprehension, and uncertainty about what lay ahead. I was on the brink of commencing my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Venturing into the unfamiliar was a challenge for my previously timid and introverted self. Looking back now, I realize the past year has been filled with personal development, trials, and a great deal of enjoyment! So, what insights have I gained, and what is my current standing?
One of the first and most intimidating hurdles I encountered was forming friendships. This is often one of the most daunting parts of starting university, and if you’re an incoming student, it might top your list of concerns. On my inaugural day of settling into my residence, just days before classes started, I spent the whole day hiding away in my room, far too frightened to emerge and introduce myself to others. Today, though, I can proudly state that I’ve made some of the finest friends I’ve ever had at this university and throughout this program. I’ve discovered a second family here at Imperial, sparked by casual conversations with peers in the same boat. So, what have I taken away from this? I learned that taking the initiative at the beginning of the year is always advantageous. If you’re not prepared or at ease, don’t worry! There will be countless opportunities and events to break the ice and help you engage with others. I also found that being true to yourself is essential. With such a diverse array of individuals across the program and institution, you’re certain to connect with those who share your vibe.
Another obstacle was handling the workload and the difficulty of the material. There was certainly a leap from A-levels, and in many ways, an even larger transition from the first term to the second. Being immersed in such an environment can shake your self-assurance; you might observe others studying and feel inferior. What aided me was the realization that everyone is navigating the same journey. If you don’t grasp a concept, I can nearly assure you that others are in the same boat. Therefore, don’t hesitate to ask for assistance. This might be the most vital lesson to grasp in your first year. Reach out to classmates and faculty!
This leads me to my next point. The faculty in the Materials department are outstanding. They genuinely want you to thrive and comprehend the challenges faced by students. They resonate with our experiences and maintain ongoing communication throughout the academic year regarding our concerns. I didn’t fully leverage the support available until the latter part of the year, but I wish I had done so earlier. I mentioned taking initiatives previously – I took one by becoming a well-being representative for my year. This position helped me build relationships with the staff, which is priceless. There are numerous avenues to connect with faculty, and it’s one of the best investments you can make for your own benefit! My primary takeaway from this aspect of university life is to make the most of the assistance provided. You can never have too much support!
In summary, this year has imparted to me that feelings of nervousness, both prior to and during university, are often baseless and can be eased with the support systems available from faculty and fellow students. I’ve discovered that I’m never truly alone and have learned how to find joy in spite of pressures such as exams and deadlines.