By Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I was filled with anxiety and uncertainty regarding the future as I embarked on my journey in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Venturing into the unfamiliar was not something my previously reserved self was used to. Looking back on the last academic year, I recognize a path of personal development, obstacles, and enjoyment. But what insights have I gained, and what is my current standing?
One of the first hurdles I faced was making connections, which is a daunting part of commencing university. On my initial day at my accommodation, I spent the entire day in my room, too overwhelmed to engage with new faces. Now, I can proudly say that I’ve formed some of the best friendships here, creating a second family at Imperial. It all began with casual conversations with individuals in similar circumstances. I realized that taking a chance at the outset of the academic year is beneficial. Even if you feel unprepared, there are numerous ice-breakers and activities to facilitate connections. Most importantly, just be yourself; you’ll encounter others who resonate with you.
An additional challenge was the intensity of the workload and the complexity of the material, which was a significant increase from A-levels and even more pronounced from the first to the second term. It can be hard on your self-esteem, especially when you find yourself comparing with peers. Remember, everyone is facing the same challenges. If something is unclear to you, it’s likely that others are struggling as well. So, do not hesitate to seek assistance from classmates and faculty. This is essential in your first year.
The faculty in Materials is exceptional. They genuinely want you to succeed and are aware of the struggles students encounter. They keep us informed about our concerns. I didn’t utilize the pastoral support until later, but I wish I had done so earlier. I took a step forward by becoming a year well-being representative, which allowed me to connect with the staff, an invaluable experience. There are many avenues to engage with faculty, and it’s one of the best actions you can take. Make the most of the available support; you can never have too much!
This year has taught me that feelings of nervousness about university are often unfounded and can be alleviated with assistance from staff and students. It has demonstrated to me that I am never alone and encouraged me to find joy amid the stress of exams and deadlines.