By Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Twelve months ago, in October 2022, I was filled with anxiety and uncertainty about what lay ahead. I was embarking on my journey in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman student. Leaping into the unfamiliar wasn’t an experience my formerly reserved self was used to. Looking back now, I realize I’ve encountered a year brimming with personal development, challenges, and enjoyment! But what insights have I gained, and what is my current standing?
One of the initial and most intimidating obstacles was forging friendships. This can be quite daunting when beginning university, and if you’re an incoming student, it may be a significant worry. On my first day of moving into my new place, I spent the whole day in my room, too apprehensive to venture out and meet others. Now, I can assertively say that I have formed some wonderful friendships here at university and within my program. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, and it all initiated with casual conversations with individuals in similar circumstances. So, what have I realized? It’s beneficial to take a risk at the onset of the year. If you don’t feel prepared, don’t stress! There will be introductory events designed to facilitate connections with others. I also discovered that staying true to yourself is essential. With such a diverse crowd across the program and campus, you’ll surely encounter individuals who share your interests.
Another hurdle was the intensity of the workload and the complexity of the material. The leap from A-levels was quite significant, and an even greater shift occurred from the first to the second term. Being in such a setting can undermine your confidence; you might feel insufficient compared to your peers. What aided me was the realization that everyone is navigating similar challenges. If you’re confused about a topic, it’s probable that others are too. Therefore, don’t hesitate to ask for assistance. This may be the most crucial ability to cultivate in your first year. Look for support from classmates and faculty!
Speaking of faculty, the Materials department is outstanding. They genuinely want you to thrive and are aware of the difficulties students encounter. They show empathy and keep open lines of communication regarding our concerns. I didn’t fully take advantage of the pastoral support until later in the year, but I wish I had engaged with it sooner. I previously mentioned taking chances – I took one by becoming a year well-being representative. This position enabled me to connect with faculty, which is tremendously beneficial. There are various avenues to familiarize yourself with the staff, and it’s one of the finest decisions you can make for yourself! My primary lesson is to leverage the support available to you. You can never receive too much assistance!
In summary, this year has taught me that feelings of nervousness before and during university are often misplaced and can be mitigated by the support offered by faculty and fellow students. It has shown me that I’m never isolated and how to have a good time despite the pressures from exams and due dates.