By Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months back, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, fear, and uncertainty about what lay ahead. I was about to embark on my journey in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Stepping into the unfamiliar was not something my previously shy and reserved self was used to. Looking back now, I recognize a year filled with personal development, obstacles, and a great deal of 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 one of the most frightening elements of starting university, and if you are a future student, it may be one of your primary worries. On my initial day moving into my accommodation, just a few days prior to the semester starting, I spent the whole day confined to my room, too daunted to venture out and meet new people. However, I can now proudly say that I’ve made some of the finest friends I’ve ever had, both within this university and in my program. I’ve discovered a second family here at Imperial, and all it took was a bit of small talk with individuals in similar situations. So, what have I come to learn? I discovered that it’s always advantageous to take a chance at the beginning of the year. If you don’t feel prepared or at ease, don’t fret! There will be numerous ice-breaker events to assist you in connecting with others. I also realized that if you can be anything, be genuinely yourself. With such a diverse array of people throughout the course and university, you are sure to encounter others who resonate with you.
Another obstacle was the amount of work and the complexity of the content. There was undoubtedly a transition from A-levels, and in many respects, an even greater leap from the first semester to the second. Being thrust into such an environment can be challenging for your self-esteem; you may observe others studying and feel inferior. Several factors aided me in navigating those feelings, one being the reminder that everybody is experiencing the same situation. If you don’t grasp a concept, I can almost assure you that others are in the same position. So, don’t hesitate to ask for assistance. This could be the single most crucial lesson to learn in the first year. Seek support from your peers and the faculty!
This leads me to my next point. The faculty in Materials is fantastic. They genuinely want you to thrive and recognize that students face challenges. They show understanding towards us and keep open lines of communication throughout the year regarding our concerns. I didn’t really utilize the pastoral support until the end of the year, but I wish I had done so earlier. I mentioned taking leaps before – I took one at the beginning of the year by becoming a wellness representative for my year. This position allowed me to connect with the faculty members, which is tremendously beneficial. There are numerous avenues to get acquainted with the staff, and it’s undeniably one of the most advantageous steps you can take for yourself! My key takeaway from this aspect of university life is to seize the support provided. You can never have too much of it!
In summary, this year has taught me that feelings of nervousness, both pre-university and during, are frequently unwarranted and can be eased with the various support resources available from faculty and fellow students. It has demonstrated that I am never alone and how to find joy amidst pressures such as exams and deadlines.