Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, fear, and uncertainty regarding the future. I was about to embark on my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Venturing into the unknown was not something my previously shy and introverted self was familiar with. Looking back, I recognize a year filled with personal development, obstacles, and a great deal of enjoyment! But what insights did this year provide, and where do I stand now?
One of the first and most intimidating hurdles was forming friendships. This is frequently one of the most frightening parts of starting university, and if you’re reading this as a future student, it may be a significant worry for you. On my first day moving into my housing, just a few days before classes commenced, I confined myself to my room, too apprehensive to venture out and introduce myself. Now, I can confidently state that I’ve forged some of the best friendships here at university and in my program. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, all through engaging in casual conversations with others in similar circumstances. So, what did I learn? I learned that taking a chance at the beginning of the year is essential. If you’re not prepared or at ease, don’t stress! There are plenty of ice-breaker activities available to help you connect with others. I also discovered that being authentic is crucial. With such a variety of individuals across the program and university, you’re sure to encounter like-minded people.
Another significant challenge was the intensity of the workload and the difficulty of the material. There was a noticeable transition from A-levels, and even more so from the first to the second term. Being in such a setting can challenge your confidence; you may observe others studying and feel inadequate. What aided me was the realization that everyone is experiencing the same situation. If you’re struggling to grasp something, it’s likely that others are too. So, don’t hesitate to seek assistance. This might be the most vital skill to cultivate in your first year. Reach out for help from classmates and faculty!
This brings me to my next point. The faculty in Materials are exceptional. They genuinely want you to succeed and understand the challenges students encounter. They empathize and consistently engage with us about our issues. I didn’t fully take advantage of the support available until the end of the year, but I wish I had done so earlier. I mentioned taking risks earlier – I took one at the beginning of the year by becoming a well-being representative for my year. This position enabled me to connect with staff members, which is immensely beneficial. There are numerous ways to build relationships with faculty, and it is one of the best choices you can make for yourself! My key takeaway is to capitalize on the assistance available. You can never have too much support!
In summary, this year has illustrated to me that feelings of nervousness, both before and during university, are often baseless and can be eased with the support available from staff and fellow students. It has demonstrated that I am never alone and has taught me how to have fun despite pressures like exams and deadlines.