By Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I felt anxious and uncertain about what lay ahead. I was on the verge of starting my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a first-year student. Venturing into the unknown was not something my previously reserved self was used to. Looking back, I recognize a year filled with personal development, obstacles, and a great deal of enjoyment! But what insights have I gained this year, and what is my current standing?
A key and initially overwhelming hurdle was forming friendships. This often weighs heavily on the minds of new university students, and if you’re reading this as an incoming student, it may be a concern for you as well. On my first day moving into my residence, a few days prior to the start of the semester, I spent the whole day in my room, too apprehensive to venture out and meet others. Now, I can assert with confidence that I’ve established some of the most wonderful friendships here at the university and within my program. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, and it all began with casual conversations with individuals in similar circumstances. So, what have I discovered? I learned that taking a risk at the beginning of the year is essential. If you don’t feel prepared or at ease, don’t fret! There will be numerous ice-breaker activities to aid in your connections with others. I also grasped the importance of being authentic. With such a diverse group of people in the program and university, you’re sure to find those who resonate with your interests.
Another significant challenge was the academic workload and complexity of the material. There was a marked increase from A-levels, and an even greater leap from the first to the second term. Being in this environment can be challenging for your self-esteem; you might observe others studying and feel less capable. A few strategies assisted me in overcoming this, one being the reminder that everyone is experiencing similar situations. If you find something difficult, it’s likely that others do too. So, don’t hesitate to seek assistance. This may be the most vital lesson to learn in your first year. Reach out for help from peers and faculty!
This brings me to my next point. The faculty in Materials are exceptional. They genuinely want you to succeed and are aware of the challenges students encounter. They relate to students and maintain ongoing communication with us regarding our concerns. I didn’t fully take advantage of the support services until the end of the year, but I wish I had done so earlier. I mentioned earlier about taking risks – I took one by becoming a well-being representative for my year. This position enabled me to connect with the staff, which is immensely beneficial. There are numerous ways to engage with faculty, and it’s one of the best steps you can take for yourself! My primary lesson from this aspect of university life is to fully utilize the support available. You can never have too much!
In general, this year has impressed upon me that feelings of apprehension, both prior to and during university, are frequently unfounded and can be mitigated through the support provided by staff and fellow students. It has taught me that I’m never alone, and it has illustrated how to find joy despite the pressures of exams and deadlines.