By Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I felt anxious and uncertain about what lay ahead. I was on the verge of starting my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a newcomer. Venturing into the unknown was a territory my formerly reserved self was not used to. Looking back, I recognize a year filled with personal development, hurdles, and enjoyment! What has this year revealed to me, and where do I stand now?
One of the first and most intimidating hurdles was making friends. This is frequently one of the most daunting parts of beginning university, and if you’re a potential student, it may be a significant worry. On my first day moving into my accommodation, a few days ahead of the term, I spent the entire day confined to my room, too scared to venture out and meet people. Today, I can proudly say I’ve formed some of the best friendships here at university and within my course. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, and it all began with casual conversations with others in similar circumstances. What did I learn? It’s crucial to make an effort at the beginning of the year. If you’re not ready or feel uneasy, don’t fret! There will be numerous opportunities and events to break the ice and help you engage with others. I also realized that being authentic is essential. With such a diverse community across the course and university, you’re sure to meet like-minded individuals.
Another obstacle was handling the workload and the complexity of the material. There was a noticeable increase from A-levels, and an even more substantial leap from the first semester to the second. Being in such an environment can challenge your confidence; you may feel unqualified in comparison to others. What assisted me was the reminder that everyone shares the same experience. If something is unclear to you, chances are it’s unclear to others as well. So, don’t hesitate to seek help. This might be the most vital lesson in your first year. Reach out to peers and faculty!
The faculty in Materials are exceptional. They genuinely want you to thrive and understand the challenges students endure. They relate to us and maintain ongoing communication regarding our concerns. I didn’t fully utilize the support services until late in the year, but I wish I had taken advantage of them sooner. I spoke of taking leaps earlier – I made one by becoming a well-being representative for my year. This position allowed me to connect with staff, which is incredibly enriching. There are numerous ways to engage with the faculty, and it’s one of the best decisions you can make for yourself! My primary takeaway is to capitalize on the assistance provided. You can never have too much support!
In summary, this year has taught me that feelings of nervousness about university are often baseless and can be relieved with the support available from faculty and fellow students. It has shown me I’m never alone and how to find enjoyment amidst the pressures of exams and deadlines.