By Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Reflecting on ten months past, from October 2022, I remember feeling anxious and uncertain about what lay ahead. I was starting my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Embracing the unknown was not something my once-timid self was familiar with. Looking back now, I realize the year has been filled with personal development, obstacles, and enjoyment! But what insights have I gained, and what is my current standing?
One of the first and most intimidating hurdles was establishing friendships. This can be one of the most daunting parts of beginning university, and if you’re an incoming student, it might weigh heavily on your mind. On the day I moved into my accommodation, before classes started, I spent the entire day in my room, feeling too intimidated to venture out and socialize. Today, I can proudly say that I’ve formed some of the best friendships during my time at university. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, simply by engaging in casual conversations with others experiencing similar situations. So, what’s the lesson? It’s wise to take a chance at the beginning of the year. If you’re feeling unprepared or uneasy, don’t fret! Numerous ice-breaker activities exist to facilitate connections with others. Additionally, be genuine. With such a diverse crowd at the university, you’ll surely encounter others like yourself.
Another challenge was managing the workload and the complexity of the material. There was an evident transition from A-levels, and an even steeper increase from the first to the second term. Being in such a setting can impact your self-esteem; you may feel inferior in comparison to your peers. Keep in mind, everyone is navigating the same difficulties. If something confounds you, others probably are struggling with it too. Therefore, seek assistance. This is essential during your first year. Reach out to both fellow students and faculty!
This leads me to my next observation. The faculty in Materials is exceptional. They genuinely want you to thrive and are aware of the challenges students face. They show empathy and maintain open lines of communication regarding our issues. I didn’t access the pastoral support until later in the academic year, but I wish I had taken advantage of it sooner. I took the initiative to become a well-being representative for my year, which enhanced my connections with the staff—a priceless experience. There are numerous opportunities to engage with faculty, and it’s advantageous for you! My key takeaway is to make use of the resources available. You can never have too much assistance!
This year has taught me that feelings of nervousness about university are often baseless and can be eased by the support accessible from both staff and fellow students. It has shown me that I’m never isolated and how to find joy even amidst the pressures of exams and deadlines.