Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
In October 2022, ten months ago, I felt a mix of anxiety and uncertainty about what lay ahead. I was on the verge of starting my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Diving into the unpredictable was not something my formerly introverted self was familiar with. Looking back now, I recognize a year brimming with personal development, obstacles, and a lot of enjoyment! But what insights have I gained this year, and where do I currently stand?
One of the first and most intimidating hurdles was forging friendships. This is frequently one of the most daunting elements of beginning university, and if you’re an incoming student, it may be a significant worry. On my initial day of moving into my residence, a few days prior to the start of classes, I spent the whole day sequestered in my room, too apprehensive to venture out and meet others. However, today I can proudly say that I’ve made some of the most wonderful friends here at university and in my program. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, and it all kicked off with casual conversations with others in comparable scenarios. So, what did I realize? I discovered that taking a risk at the beginning of the year is essential. If you’re not prepared or feel uneasy, don’t fret! There will be ample ice-breaking activities to assist you in connecting with others. I also recognized that being authentic is vital. With such a diverse crowd at university, you are sure to find those who connect with you.
Another obstacle was balancing the workload and grappling with the difficulty of the material. There was certainly a leap from A-levels, and an even larger jump from the first term to the second. Being in such an environment can be challenging for your self-esteem; you might observe others studying and feel inadequate. A few strategies helped me navigate this, one being the reminder that everyone is experiencing similar challenges. If you’re struggling with something, it’s likely that others are as well. So, don’t hesitate to ask for assistance. This might be the most crucial lesson learned in the first year. Reach out for help from classmates and faculty!
This leads me to my subsequent point. The faculty in Materials are exceptional. They are invested in your success and recognize the hurdles that students encounter. They show understanding and keep consistent communication regarding our concerns. I didn’t fully take advantage of the pastoral support until the end of the year, but I wish I had utilized it sooner. I mentioned taking risks before—one such risk was becoming a year well-being representative. This position enabled me to connect with the faculty, which is invaluable. There are numerous opportunities to familiarize yourself with staff, and it’s one of the finest actions you can undertake! My key takeaway is to fully utilize the assistance provided. You can never have too much!
In summary, this year has shown me that feelings of apprehension about university are frequently baseless and can be eased with the support offered by staff and fellow students. It taught me that I am never alone and how to find enjoyment even amidst the pressures of exams and deadlines.