Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Nearly ten months ago, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, fears, and uncertainties about what lay ahead. I was on the verge of commencing my Materials Science and Engineering degree as a freshman. Venturing into the unknown was not something my formerly shy and introverted self was familiar with. Now, looking back, I recognize a year filled with personal development, hurdles, and fun! But what insights have I gained, and what is my current status?
One of the first and most intimidating obstacles was forming friendships. This can often be one of the most daunting parts of beginning university, and if you are a potential student, it might be a considerable worry for you. On my initial day moving into my residence, just days before classes started, I spent the whole day tucked away in my room, too apprehensive to step outside and meet others. However, today, I can proudly say that I’ve made some of the greatest friends I’ve ever known, both at this university and within my program. I’ve discovered a second family here at Imperial, and all it required was initiating small conversations with others in similar circumstances. So, what did I take away from this? I learned that taking a bold step at the beginning of the year is always advantageous. If you’re not completely ready or at ease, don’t stress! There will be countless ice-breaker chances and events designed to help you connect with others. I also realized that being true to yourself is essential. With so many diverse personalities throughout the program and university, you’re sure to find individuals who resonate with you.
Another hurdle was coping with the workload and the complexity of the material. There was a marked increase in difficulty from A-levels, and in some respects, an even more significant transition from the first term to the second. Being thrust into such an environment can be daunting for your self-esteem; you might observe others studying and feel insufficient. Several factors assisted me in overcoming that sensation, one being the reassurance that everyone shares the same experience. If you’re struggling to grasp a concept, I can almost promise that others are too. So, don’t hesitate to ask for help. This may be the most vital skill to hone in your first year. Seek guidance from your classmates and the faculty!
This leads me to my next point. The staff in Materials are remarkable. They genuinely want you to flourish and recognize the challenges students encounter. They relate to students and maintain open lines of communication with us throughout the year regarding our issues. I didn’t fully take advantage of the supportive resources until late in the year, but I wish I had started earlier. I spoke of taking leaps before—at the year’s onset, I took one by becoming a well-being representative for my year. This role enabled me to connect with the staff members, which is immensely beneficial. There are numerous ways to connect with the staff, and it’s among the best things you can do for yourself! My primary lesson from this aspect of university is to capitalize on the assistance available. You can never have too much!
In summary, this year has shown me that feelings of nervousness, both before and during university, are frequently baseless and can be eased with the various support systems provided by staff and fellow students. It has enlightened me that I’m never alone and how to find enjoyment even amidst the pressures of exams and deadlines.