Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Nearly a year ago, in October 2022, I found myself feeling nervous and uncertain about what lay ahead. I was about to embark on my journey in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Embracing the unfamiliar wasn’t something my formerly reserved self was used to. Now, looking back, I recognize a year brimming with personal development, challenges, and immense enjoyment! But what insights have I gained, and what is my current situation?
One of the first and most intimidating obstacles was forming friendships. This is frequently one of the most daunting parts of starting university, and if you’re an incoming student, it may be a significant worry for you. On my initial day of moving into my accommodation, a few days prior to the semester commencing, I remained in my room all day, feeling too overwhelmed to step out and socialize. Presently, I can confidently assert that I’ve forged some of the finest friendships here at university and within my program. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, and it all commenced with brief conversations with others in similar circumstances. So, what did I glean? Taking the plunge at the beginning of the year is advisable. If you’re not prepared or at ease, don’t fret! There will be numerous ice-breaker activities to facilitate your interactions with others. Additionally, if you can embody one thing, let it be your true self. With the rich diversity at the university, you’re sure to find those who connect with you.
Another significant hurdle was the volume of work and the difficulty of the content. There was a noticeable shift from A-levels, and an even steeper increase from the first to the second term. Being in such a setting can weigh heavily on your confidence; you may feel inadequate in comparison to your peers. What proved beneficial for me was the realization that everyone is experiencing the same challenges. If something puzzles you, it’s likely that others share your confusion. So, don’t hesitate to seek assistance. This may be the most vital lesson from the first year. Reach out for help from both fellow students and faculty!
This brings me to my subsequent observation. The faculty in Materials are remarkable. They genuinely desire for you to thrive and are aware of the difficulties faced by students. They empathize with us and maintain open lines of communication regarding our concerns. I didn’t fully leverage the pastoral support until the conclusion of the year, but I wish I had done so sooner. I mentioned taking significant steps earlier – I took one by becoming a year well-being representative. This position enabled me to connect with faculty, which is invaluable. There are numerous ways to engage with staff, and it’s one of the best decisions you can make for yourself! My primary takeaway is to make the most of the support that is accessible. You can never have too much!
In summary, this year has shown me that feelings of anxiety about university are generally misplaced and can be mitigated by the support available from faculty and fellow students. I’ve learned that I am never alone, and I’ve discovered ways to find enjoyment despite the pressures of exams and deadlines.