By Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I felt anxious and uncertain about the journey ahead as I commenced my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Diving into the unknown was not something my formerly reserved self was accustomed to. Looking back now, I recognize a year marked by 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 forging friendships. This is a common worry for newcomers at university. On my first day moving into my residence, I remained in my room, too daunted to venture out and socialize. Today, I can proudly say I’ve formed some incredible friendships at university and within my program. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, all originating from initiating brief conversations with others experiencing similar challenges. What did I learn? Taking that initial leap is essential. If you’re not ready or feel uneasy, don’t stress! There are numerous ice-breaker activities designed to assist you in connecting with others. Additionally, be true to yourself. With such a diverse group of people at the university, you are sure to encounter those who resonate with you.
Another significant challenge was the volume of work and the complexity of the material. There was a noticeable increase in difficulty from A-levels, and an even more substantial jump from the first term to the second. Being in such a competitive environment can take a toll on your self-esteem; you might feel less capable relative to your peers. Keep in mind that everyone shares this experience. If something isn’t clear to you, it’s likely that others are confused too. Thus, seek assistance. This is possibly the most vital lesson for your first year. Reach out to classmates and professors!
This leads me to my next observation. The faculty in Materials are exceptional. They genuinely want to see you succeed and understand the challenges that students encounter. They show empathy and maintain an open line of communication with us throughout the academic year. I didn’t utilize the pastoral support until the end of the year, but I wish I had taken advantage of it earlier. I opted to become a year well-being representative, which allowed me to connect with the staff—a precious opportunity. There are countless ways to engage with faculty, and it’s one of the most beneficial actions you can take for your own well-being! My main takeaway is to fully utilize the available support. You can never have too much help!
In summary, this year has illustrated to me that apprehensive feelings regarding university are often unwarranted and can be eased by the support provided by both staff and fellow students. It has underscored the fact that I’m never truly alone and how to embrace enjoyment even amidst the stresses of exams and deadlines.