Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months prior, in October 2022, I felt nervous and uncertain about what lay ahead as I embarked on my journey in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Stepping into the unfamiliar was not something my previously reserved self was used to. Looking back now, I recognize a year filled with personal development, hurdles, and enjoyment. But what insights have I gained, and where am I currently?
One of the foremost and most intimidating challenges was forging friendships. This is frequently a significant concern for newcomers to university. On my initial day moving into my residence, I spent the entire day inside my room, daunted by the thought of meeting new individuals. Today, I can proudly affirm that I’ve forged some of the best friendships here at university. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, simply by initiating casual conversations with others in similar positions. The essential lesson? Take the risk at the beginning of the year. If you’re not prepared, no need to stress—there are plenty of ice-breaking events to facilitate connections. Be authentic, and you’ll discover people like yourself.
Another obstacle was the volume of work and the difficulty of the content. There was a significant leap from A-levels, and an even larger one from the first to the second term. This setting can be challenging for your self-esteem, especially when measuring yourself against others. Keep in mind, everyone is in the same predicament. If something is unclear, it’s likely that others are confused too. So, don’t hesitate to seek assistance. This is vital in your first year—ask for help from both classmates and staff!
The faculty in Materials are excellent. They genuinely want you to thrive and recognize the challenges students encounter. They keep communication open regarding our concerns throughout the year. I didn’t utilize the pastoral support until later, but I regret not doing so sooner. I took the initiative by becoming a year well-being representative, which provided me with a chance to connect with staff—an invaluable experience. There are various ways to get acquainted with the faculty, and it’s one of the best things you can do for your own benefit. Make the most of the assistance available; you can never have too much!
This year has taught me that anxieties regarding university are often unfounded and can be eased with the support from both staff and students. I’ve realized I’m never truly alone and how to have fun despite the pressures of exams and deadlines.