Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with nerves, trepidation, and uncertainty about what lay ahead. I was on the verge of embarking on my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a fresh student. Venturing into the unknown was not something my previously shy and reserved self was used to. Looking back now, I recognize a year filled with personal development, obstacles, and plenty of enjoyment! But what insights have I gained this year, and what is my current situation?
One of the first and most intimidating challenges was forming friendships. This is frequently one of the most daunting parts of beginning university, and if you’re a potential student, it may rank high on your list of concerns. On my initial day moving into my accommodations, mere days before the semester kicked off, I spent the entire day tucked away in my room, too daunted to venture out and meet others. Today, however, I can proudly state that I have made some of the closest friends I’ve ever had, both at this university and within this program. I’ve discovered a second family here at Imperial, and it all began with casual conversations with individuals in similar situations. So, what did I discover? I found that taking a bold step at the start of the year is always advisable. If you don’t feel ready or at ease, don’t stress! There will be ample ice-breaker activities to assist you in meeting others. I also realized that if you can embody one thing, be authentic. With such a diverse array of individuals throughout the course and university, you’re sure to encounter those who resonate with you.
Another challenge was the intensity of the workload and the complexity of the content. There was certainly a significant increase from A-levels, and in some respects, an even larger jump from the first term to the second. Being immersed in such a setting can be challenging for your self-esteem; you might observe others studying and feel inadequate. A few strategies helped me navigate that feeling, one being the reminder that everyone is in the same situation. If something doesn’t click for you, I can almost assure you that there are others who feel the same. So, reach out for assistance. This may be the single most vital lesson to learn in your first year. Seek help from your peers and the faculty!
This leads me to my next observation. The faculty in Materials are outstanding. They genuinely want you to thrive and recognize the challenges students encounter. They relate to us and maintain open lines of communication throughout the year regarding our concerns. I didn’t fully take advantage of the supportive resources until the latter part of the year, but I wish I had done so earlier. I spoke of taking bold steps earlier—I did take one at the beginning by becoming a year well-being representative. This position enabled me to forge relationships with the faculty, which is incredibly rewarding. There are numerous ways to interact with staff, and this is definitely one of the best things you can do for yourself! My primary takeaway from this facet of university life is to seize the opportunities for assistance. You can never have an excess of support!
All in all, this year has shown me that the feelings of anxiety, both prior to and during university, are frequently misplaced and can be mitigated by the various support systems offered by staff and fellow students. It has demonstrated to me that I am never alone and how to find enjoyment even amidst pressures like exams and deadlines.