Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months back, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, fear, and uncertainty about what lay ahead. I was on the verge of starting my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a newcomer. Venturing into the unfamiliar wasn’t something my previously shy and reserved self was used to. Looking back on the last academic year, I recognize a path of self-improvement, hurdles, and loads of enjoyment! But what insights have I gained this year, and what is my current standing?
One of the first and most intimidating hurdles was forging friendships. This is undoubtedly one of the more daunting facets of beginning university, and if you are reading this as an incoming student, it may be a significant worry for you. On my initial day moving into my accommodation, a few days preceding the semester, I spent the whole day confined to my room, too daunted to step out and introduce myself. Today, however, I can assertively state that I’ve formed some of the finest friendships I’ve ever had, both here at this university and within this program. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, and it all commenced with casual conversations with individuals facing similar circumstances. So, what did I discover? I found that it’s always best to take a plunge at the beginning of the year. If you don’t yet feel prepared or at ease, don’t fret! There will be numerous ice-breaker chances and events to assist you in connecting with others. I also realized that if you can truly be one thing, be authentic. With such a diverse range of people across the program and the university, you’re sure to meet those who resonate with you.
Another challenge was the academic workload and the complexity of the material. There was definitely a transition from A-levels, and in some respects, an even steeper transition from the first term to the second. Being thrust into such a setting isn’t always beneficial for your self-esteem; you might observe others studying and feel inadequate. Several factors helped me navigate those feelings, one being the reminder that everyone is experiencing similar challenges. If something isn’t clear to you, I can nearly guarantee that there are others who also find it confusing. So, seek assistance. This might be the single most crucial lesson to grasp in your first year. Don’t hesitate to seek help from your peers and the faculty!
This leads me to my next point. The faculty in Materials Science are exceptional. They genuinely want you to thrive and understand the challenges students encounter. They relate to students and keep open lines of communication with us throughout the year about our concerns. I didn’t fully take advantage of the pastoral support until the year’s end, but I wish I had done so earlier. I mentioned taking leaps previously – I took a significant step at the year’s start by becoming a year well-being representative. This role allowed me to connect with the faculty members, which is incredibly beneficial. There are numerous ways to build relationships with staff, and it’s certainly one of the best choices you can make for yourself! My primary takeaway from this aspect of university is to make the most of the assistance available to you. You can never have too much support!
In summary, this year has revealed to me that feelings of nervousness, both prior to and during university, are frequently baseless and can be eased by the various support resources provided by staff and fellow students. It has taught me that I am never solitary, and it has demonstrated how to find enjoyment even amidst pressures like exams and deadlines.