Composed by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
A little over ten months ago, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, fear, and uncertainty regarding my future. I was about to start my journey in Materials Science and Engineering as a new student. Exploring the unfamiliar was not something that my once shy and reserved self was used to. Looking back now, I recognize a year filled with personal growth, obstacles, and enjoyment! But what insights did I gain, and what is my current status?
One of the first and most intimidating hurdles was forming friendships. This is frequently one of the most daunting elements of beginning university, and if you’re an incoming student, it may be your top concern. On my initial day moving into residence, a few days prior to the start of classes, I remained in my room the entire day, too frightened to step out and meet others. Currently, I can proudly say that I’ve developed some of the greatest friendships here at university and in my program. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, all from engaging in casual conversations with those in similar circumstances. So, what did I discover? I found that it’s important to take a chance at the beginning of the year. If you’re not prepared or at ease, don’t worry! There will be numerous ice-breaker events to assist you in connecting with others. I also realized that being authentic is essential. With such a variety of individuals in the program and the university, you’re sure to encounter like-minded people.
Another obstacle was the level of workload and the difficulty of the material. There was a clear increase in expectations from A-levels, with an even larger jump from the first term to the second. Being thrust into such a challenging setting can impact your self-esteem; you might observe your peers studying and feel inferior. What supported me was the reminder that everyone is facing similar challenges. If you find something confusing, it’s likely that others do too. Therefore, don’t hesitate to seek assistance. This might be the most vital lesson from the first year. Reach out to fellow students and instructors for help!
This leads me to my next observation. The faculty in Materials are exceptional. They genuinely want you to thrive and understand the obstacles students confront. They show empathy and maintain ongoing communication regarding our issues. I didn’t fully take advantage of the support services until the year was nearly over, but I wish I had done so earlier. I mentioned taking leaps before – I took one by becoming a year well-being representative. This position allowed me to connect with the staff, which is immensely beneficial. There are numerous avenues to engage with faculty, and it’s one of the best actions you can take for your own benefit! My main insight is to make the most of the resources available. You can never receive too much support!
In summary, this year has demonstrated that feelings of nervousness, both prior to and during university, are often unwarranted and can be eased by the support systems provided by faculty and fellow students. It taught me that I am never isolated and how to find enjoyment even amidst pressures like exams and deadlines.