Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I found myself anxious and unsure about what lay ahead. I was embarking on my journey in Materials Science and Engineering as a new student. Facing the unfamiliar was not something my previously reserved self was used to. Looking back, I realize that this year was filled with personal development, obstacles, and a great deal of enjoyment! So, what insights have I gained, and where do I stand now?
One of the first and most intimidating hurdles was establishing friendships. This is frequently one of the most frightening elements of beginning college, and if you’re considering applying, it may weigh heavily on your mind. On my moving-in day, just prior to the semester kicking off, I spent the whole day in my room, too daunted to venture out and introduce myself. Now, I can proudly say I’ve formed some of the best friendships at the university and within my course. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, starting with casual conversations with others in similar situations. What did I take away from this? It’s essential to take a chance at the beginning of the year. If you’re feeling unprepared, don’t fret! There will be a host of ice-breaker events designed to help you bond with others. Additionally, just be true to yourself. With such a varied group of individuals across your course and the university, you’re sure to find those who click with you.
Another difficulty was the volume of work and complexity of the material. There was a clear increase from A-levels, and an even more significant jump from the first term to the second. Being in an environment like this can be hard on your self-esteem; you might observe others studying and feel inadequate. What assisted me was keeping in mind that everyone is navigating through the same challenges. If you don’t grasp a concept, chances are many others are in the same boat. Therefore, don’t hesitate to ask for help. This might be the most vital lesson from the first year. Reach out to classmates and staff for support!
This leads me to my next observation. The staff in the Materials department are outstanding. They genuinely want you to thrive and recognize the difficulties students encounter. They are understanding and maintain consistent dialogue regarding our concerns. I didn’t fully take advantage of the pastoral support until near the end of the year, but I wish I had done so sooner. I talked about taking leaps – I took one by becoming a well-being representative for my year. This position allowed me to forge connections with staff, which is extremely valuable. There are numerous ways to become familiar with the faculty, and it’s one of the best actions you can take for your own benefit! My primary lesson is to capitalize on the assistance available. You can never receive too much help!
In summary, this year has shown me that the anxieties of pre-university life are often misplaced and can be eased with the support provided by faculty and fellow students. I’ve realized I am never alone and have learned to find enjoyment even amidst pressures like exams and deadlines.