Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Nearly ten months ago, in October 2022, I felt a mix of anxiety and uncertainty about the future. I was on the verge of starting my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Venturing into the unfamiliar was not something I was used to as a previously reserved individual. Looking back now, I recognize a year brimming with personal development, obstacles, 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 tends to be one of the most daunting elements of commencing university, and if you’re an incoming student, it may be a significant concern for you. On move-in day, just before classes were set to start, I spent the whole day in my room, too fearful to step out and meet others. Now, I’m pleased to say I’ve forged some of the strongest friendships at this university and within my program. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, and it all initiated with brief conversations with others facing similar circumstances. So, what did I discover? I learned that taking the initiative at the beginning of the year is beneficial. If you’re not prepared or feeling uneasy, don’t fret! There will be an abundance of ice-breaker activities to facilitate connections with others. Additionally, be authentic. With such a diverse population throughout the course and the university, you’re certain to encounter those who resonate with you.
Another obstacle was the volume of work and the complexity of the content. There was a significant increase from A-levels, and an even larger leap from the first term to the second. Being in such an atmosphere can strain your self-esteem; you might observe peers studying and feel like you’re falling short. What aided me was the realization that everyone is navigating similar challenges. If you’re struggling to comprehend something, it’s likely that others are too. So, don’t hesitate to ask for assistance. This might be the most vital lesson to grasp in the first year. Reach out for support from both peers and faculty!
This brings me to my next observation. The faculty in Materials are outstanding. They genuinely want you to thrive and understand the challenges that students encounter. They show empathy and maintain ongoing communication regarding our concerns. I didn’t fully engage with the pastoral support until the end of the year, but I wish I had taken advantage of it earlier. I talked about taking leaps – I took one by becoming a well-being representative for my year. This position allowed me to connect with faculty, which is invaluable. There are numerous ways to familiarize yourself with the staff, and it’s among the best things you can do for your well-being! My primary takeaway is to fully utilize the support available. You can never have too much!
In summary, this year has taught me that feelings of apprehension about university are frequently unwarranted and can be eased with the support provided by staff and fellow students. It has shown me that I’m never alone and how to find joy despite pressures such as exams and deadlines.