Composed by Dawson La, Master of Engineering in Materials Science and Engineering
Nearly a year ago, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with apprehension, anxiety, and uncertainty about what lay ahead. I was on the verge of starting my journey in Materials Science and Engineering as a newcomer. Venturing into the unfamiliar was not something my previously timid and introspective self was used to. Reflecting on the past year, I recognize a journey of self-improvement, obstacles, and enjoyment! So, what insights have I gained, and what is my current standing?
One of the first and most daunting hurdles was establishing friendships. This often ranks as one of the most intimidating elements of beginning university, and if you’re an incoming student, it might be your greatest concern. On my initial day moving into residence, just days before classes commenced, I spent the entire day secluding myself in my room, daunted by the prospect of venturing out and introducing myself. Today, I can confidently assert that I have formed some of the most cherished friendships I’ve ever had, here at this institution and within this program. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, and it all began with casual conversations with others facing similar situations. So, what did I discover? I learned that taking a bold step at the beginning of the year is always advantageous. If you don’t feel prepared or at ease, don’t fret! There will be ample ice-breaker activities and gatherings to assist you in connecting with others. I also realized that if you can embody anything, let it be your true self. With such a diverse array of people throughout the course and university, you’re sure to find individuals who share your mindset.
A further challenge was managing the workload and the difficulty of the material. There was certainly a leap from A-levels, and in certain aspects, an even greater leap from the first to the second term. Being immersed in such an atmosphere can be challenging for your self-esteem; you might observe peers studying and feel inadequate. A few factors helped me cope with that sensation, one being the reminder that everyone is experiencing the same struggles. If something isn’t clear to you, I can almost assure you that others are grappling with it too. Therefore, seek assistance. This might be the most crucial lesson to internalize in your first year. Don’t hesitate to ask peers and faculty for help!
This leads me to my next observation. The faculty in Materials are outstanding. They genuinely want you to thrive and recognize that students face difficulties. They relate to students and consistently communicate with us throughout the year regarding our challenges. I didn’t take full advantage of the pastoral support until the year’s end, but I wish I had done so earlier. I referred to taking leaps before – I embraced one at the outset of the year by becoming a year well-being representative. This position enabled me to connect with the faculty, which is incredibly beneficial. There are numerous avenues to engage with faculty, and it’s one of the finest steps you can take for your own benefit! My key takeaway from this university experience is to capitalize on the support available. You can never have too much help!
In summary, this year has revealed to me that feelings of nervousness, both prior to and during university, are often baseless and can be eased through the supportive resources provided by staff and fellow students. It has shown me that I’m never alone and has taught me how to find enjoyment amid pressures such as exams and deadlines.