Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months prior, in October 2022, I felt anxious and uncertain about the future as I embarked on my journey in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Venturing into the unknown was not something my previously introverted self was familiar with. Looking back now, I recognize a year filled with personal development, challenges, and plenty of enjoyment. But what insights have I gained, and where do I stand now?
One of the first and most intimidating hurdles was forming friendships. This can be daunting when entering university, and if you’re an incoming student, it may weigh heavily on your mind. On my initial day settling into my accommodation, I spent the whole day in my room, too apprehensive to venture out and meet others. Now, I can assert that I’ve made some wonderful friends here at university and within my program. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, beginning with casual chats with others in similar predicaments. I learned that taking a risk at the start of the year can be beneficial. If you’re feeling unprepared, don’t fret! There are numerous ice-breaker events designed to help you connect with others. Furthermore, be authentic. With such a wide array of individuals throughout the course and university, you’ll find those who resonate with you.
Another obstacle was the volume of work and the complexity of the content. The transition from A-levels was quite significant, and the jump from the first to the second term was even more pronounced. Being in such an environment can shake your confidence; you might feel inadequate in comparison to peers. Keep in mind, everyone is facing similar challenges. If you find something puzzling, chances are others do too. So, don’t hesitate to ask for help. This is essential to grasp in the first year. Seek support from classmates and faculty!
The faculty in Materials are exceptional. They genuinely want you to succeed and recognize the difficulties students encounter. They show empathy and keep communication open throughout the year regarding our concerns. I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support until the year’s end, but I wish I had taken advantage of it sooner. I mentioned taking risks earlier – I took one by stepping up as a well-being representative for the year. This position allowed me to connect with staff, which is incredibly beneficial. There are many opportunities to engage with faculty, and it’s one of the best actions you can take for yourself. My key takeaway is to make the most of the resources available. You can never have too much support!
This year has broadly illustrated that feelings of nervousness about university are often unwarranted and can be eased with the assistance available from faculty and fellow students. I’ve realized that I’m never alone and how to find joy amidst the pressures of exams and deadlines.