Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Approximately ten months ago, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety and uncertainty as I began my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a first-year student. Venturing into the unknown was intimidating for someone like me, who had always been shy and reserved. Looking back on the past academic year, I view it as a path of personal development, challenges, and enjoyment. But what insights have I gained, and what is my current situation?
One of the first hurdles was forging friendships, a typical worry for new university attendees. On my inaugural day in my residence, prior to the start of the term, I remained in my room, too fearful to interact with others. Now, I can proudly say that I’ve built some of the closest friendships here, creating a second family at Imperial. It all began with casual conversations with individuals in similar predicaments. The main lesson? Take initiative at the beginning of the year. If you feel unprepared, don’t stress—there are numerous ice-breakers and events designed to assist you in connecting. Be yourself, and you’ll discover your community within the varied student population.
Another obstacle was the intensity of the workload and the complexity of the material, which was a step up from A-levels and an even larger jump from the first to the second term. It’s easy to second-guess yourself when others appear to manage better. Keep in mind that everyone shares similar struggles. If something confuses you, it likely perplexes others as well. Therefore, don’t hesitate to ask for help. This is essential in your first year—reach out to classmates and staff!
The faculty in Materials are outstanding. They are invested in your success and are aware of student challenges, ensuring communication throughout the year. I initially didn’t utilize the pastoral support until later, but I wish I had taken advantage of it earlier. I made a bold move by becoming a year well-being representative, which enabled me to connect with the staff—a precious opportunity. There are various methods to engage with faculty, and it’s among the most beneficial steps you can take. Utilize the resources available—you can never have too much support!
This year has shown me that pre-university anxiety is frequently unfounded and can be alleviated through the support of staff and peers. I’ve realized that I’m never alone and can find joy despite pressures such as exams and deadlines.