Authored by Dawson La, Master of Engineering in Materials Science and Engineering
Approximately ten months ago, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, fear, and uncertainty regarding the future. I was on the verge of starting my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a newcomer. Venturing into the unknown was not something my previously reserved and timid nature was familiar with. Looking back now, I can recognize a year filled with personal development, challenges, and a lot of enjoyment! But what insights have I gained this year, and what is my current situation?
One of the first and most intimidating hurdles was forging friendships. This is frequently one of the most intimidating components of embarking on university life, and if you’re a future student, it may be a significant concern. On my initial day settling into my accommodation, just days prior to the semester kicking off, I spent the whole day sequestered in my room, too daunted to step out and interact with others. Now, I can assert with confidence that I’ve formed some of the most wonderful friendships here at this university and within my program. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, all of which began with casual conversations with others in similar situations. So, what did I discover? I found out that taking the plunge at the beginning of the year is always recommended. If you don’t feel prepared or at ease, that’s perfectly fine! There are numerous ice-breaking opportunities and events designed to assist you in connecting with others. I also realized that being authentic is essential. With such a wide range of diverse individuals in the program and the university, you’re sure to find those who resonate with you.
A further challenge was managing the academic workload and the complexity of the material. There was certainly a noticeable increase from A-levels, and in many ways, an even larger leap from the first term to the second. Being placed in such an environment can be a confidence-shaking experience; observing others studying might make you feel inadequate. A few elements helped me navigate through that feeling, one being the reminder that everyone is experiencing similar challenges. If you don’t grasp something, I can nearly guarantee others don’t either. Therefore, don’t hesitate to seek assistance. This may be the most vital lesson to grasp in your first year. Reach out for help from your classmates and the faculty!
This leads me to my next observation. The faculty in Materials are exceptional. They are genuinely invested in your success and are aware of the challenges students encounter. They empathize with us and maintain continuous communication throughout the year regarding our concerns. I didn’t fully take advantage of the pastoral support until the latter part of the year, but I wish I had done so earlier. I mentioned earlier about taking risks – I took one at the beginning of the year by becoming a well-being representative for my year. This role enabled me to connect with the faculty, which is incredibly beneficial. There are numerous ways to connect with faculty, and it’s one of the most advantageous actions you can take for yourself! My key takeaway from this aspect of university life is to make the most of the support available. You can never have too much!
In summary, this year has shown me that feelings of nervousness, both prior to and during university, are frequently unfounded and can be mitigated through the various support systems provided by staff and fellow students. It has illustrated to me that I am never truly alone and has taught me how to find enjoyment even amidst stressors such as exams and deadlines.