By Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Back in October 2022, ten months ago, I felt anxious and uncertain about embarking on my journey in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Venturing into the unfamiliar was a challenge for my formerly reserved nature. Looking back on the previous academic year, I perceive a path of development, obstacles, and enjoyment. What insights have I gained, and what is my current standing?
One of the early and most intimidating hurdles was forging friendships. This is a common apprehension for new university students. On my first day settling into my accommodation, I spent the entire time in my room, too daunted to engage with others. Now, I can proudly affirm that I’ve formed some of the best bonds here at university. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, and it all began with casual conversations with individuals in similar circumstances. I realized that taking a bold step at the onset of the year is advantageous. If you don’t feel prepared, don’t fret—there are numerous ice-breaker events designed to assist you in connecting with others. Being authentic is essential; with such a diverse group, you’ll discover those who align with you.
Another obstacle was navigating the workload and the complexity of the material. There was a significant increase from A-levels, and an even more considerable jump from the first to the second term. This atmosphere can test your confidence, but keep in mind, everyone is facing the same challenges. If you struggle to grasp something, chances are others do as well. Seeking help is vital in the first year—reach out to peers and faculty!
The faculty in Materials are outstanding. They genuinely want students to thrive and understand the challenges we face. They keep us informed about our concerns. I didn’t leverage pastoral support until later in the year, but I wish I’d discovered it sooner. I took a step forward by becoming a year well-being representative, which allowed me to forge connections with faculty—a rewarding experience. There are numerous avenues to familiarize yourself with staff, and it’s one of the most beneficial actions you can undertake for yourself. Embrace the assistance available; you can never receive too much!
This year has taught me that feelings of anxiety regarding university are frequently baseless and can be mitigated by the support provided by faculty and fellow students. I’ve realized I am never alone and have learned how to find joy despite stressors like exams and deadlines.