By Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months prior, in October 2022, I felt anxious and uncertain about what lay ahead. I was on the brink of starting my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a first-time student. Leap into the unknown was not something my previously reserved self was used to. Looking back now, I recognize a year filled with personal development, challenges, and enjoyment! But what insights have I gained, and what is my current situation?
One of the first and most intimidating hurdles was forming friendships. This is frequently a significant concern for new university attendees. On my initial day of moving into housing, before the semester kicked off, I spent the whole day in my room, too scared to venture out and meet others. Now, I can proudly state that I’ve cultivated some of the best friendships here at university and within my program. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, beginning with casual conversations with those in similar situations. I learned that taking a risk at the beginning of the year is essential. If you’re not prepared, don’t fret! There are numerous ice-breaker events designed to assist you in connecting with others. Be genuine, and you will encounter like-minded individuals.
An additional obstacle was the volume of work and the complexity of the material. There was a significant leap from A-levels, and an even greater transition from the first term to the second. Being in such an atmosphere can influence your self-esteem; you might feel inferior in comparison to your peers. Remember, everyone shares the same experience. If you’re confused about something, chances are others are too. So, reach out for assistance. This is perhaps the most vital lesson in the first year. Seek help from fellow students and staff!
The faculty in Materials are remarkable. They genuinely want you to thrive and recognize the struggles that students face. They maintain communication with us throughout the academic year regarding our issues. I didn’t utilize the pastoral support until late in the year, but I wish I had taken advantage of it earlier. I took a step forward by becoming a well-being representative for the year, which allowed me to connect with faculty members, a valuable opportunity. There are numerous avenues to engage with staff, and it’s one of the greatest things you can do for yourself. Make use of the assistance available. You can never have too much!
This year has taught me that apprehensions about university are frequently unfounded and can be eased with the support from both staff and fellow students. It has shown me I’m never isolated and how to find joy despite the stress of exams and deadlines.