By Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months back, in October 2022, I felt anxious and uncertain about what lay ahead as I embarked on my journey in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Venturing into the unfamiliar was not something my formerly shy self was accustomed to. Looking back, I recognize a year rich in personal development, challenges, and enjoyment. But what insights have I gained, and what is my current situation?
One of the first and most intimidating hurdles was forging friendships. This is frequently a significant concern for new university students, and if you are reading this as an aspiring student, it may be on your mind as well. On my first day of moving into my accommodation, I spent the whole day confined to my room, too apprehensive to venture out and socialize. Now, I can assert that I’ve formed some incredible friendships here at university and within my program. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, all beginning with casual conversations with others in similar circumstances. So, what key lesson did I take away? Taking the plunge at the beginning of the year is essential. If you’re not prepared, don’t fret! There will be numerous ice-breaking events designed to facilitate connections with others. Also, make sure to be yourself. With such a diverse community, you will find people like you.
An additional challenge was the academic workload and the intensity of the material. There was a clear increase from A-levels, and an even greater leap from the first to the second term. Being in such an atmosphere can impact your self-esteem; you may feel inadequate in comparison to your peers. Keep in mind, everyone is experiencing similar challenges. If something isn’t clear to you, it likely isn’t clear to others as well. So, do not hesitate to ask for assistance. This is indispensable in your first year. Reach out to both peers and faculty!
This brings me to my next observation. The faculty in Materials are exceptional. They genuinely want you to thrive and are aware of the difficulties students encounter. They sustain ongoing communication regarding our concerns. I didn’t utilize the pastoral support until later in the year, but I wish I had done so earlier. I took a step forward by becoming a well-being representative for my year, which allowed me to connect with faculty—a valuable experience. There are multiple avenues to engage with staff, and it’s one of the most beneficial actions you can take for yourself! My primary takeaway is to capitalize on the assistance available. There’s no such thing as too much help!
This year has shown me that feelings of nervousness about university are frequently unfounded and can be alleviated through the support available from both staff and fellow students. I’ve come to realize that I am never alone and how to find joy even amidst the pressures of exams and deadlines.