Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Around ten months back, in October 2022, I felt anxious and uncertain about what lay ahead as I prepared to embark on my journey in Materials Science and Engineering as a first-year student. Venturing into the unfamiliar was not something my formerly shy self was used to. Looking back on the past academic year, I witness a path of personal growth, obstacles, and enjoyment. What insights have I gained, and where do I stand now?
One of the first and most intimidating obstacles was forming friendships. This is frequently a major worry for new university students. On my initial day moving into my residence, I remained in my room the whole day, too apprehensive to engage with new individuals. Now, I can proudly state that I’ve made some of the finest friends at this university and within my program. I’ve established a second family at Imperial, and it all began with casual conversations with others in similar circumstances. The essential lesson? Taking a chance at the beginning of the year is advantageous. If you’re not prepared, don’t fret—there are numerous ice-breaker events to help you connect. Be authentic, and you’ll discover people who resonate with you.
Another hurdle was managing the workload and the complexity of the content. The transition from A-levels was significant, and the leap from the first to the second term was even more acute. This atmosphere can test your confidence, particularly when you compare yourself to others. Keep in mind, everyone is navigating the same challenges. If you’re finding something difficult to grasp, others probably are too. The most essential lesson during the first year is to seek assistance, whether from peers or faculty.
The faculty in the Materials department are exceptional. They genuinely want students to thrive and are aware of the challenges we encounter. They foster open dialogue throughout the year. I didn’t make full use of the pastoral support until later on, but I wish I had started earlier. I took a bold step by becoming a year well-being representative, which facilitated my connection with staff members—a priceless opportunity. There are numerous ways to engage with the faculty, and it’s one of the greatest things you can do. Make the most of the support available; you can never have too much!
This year has revealed to me that pre-university anxiety is often baseless and can be mitigated with the support from staff and fellow students. I’ve discovered that I’m never isolated and have learned how to find joy even amidst the stress of exams and deadlines.