By Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, back in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, fear, and uncertainty about what lay ahead. I was on the verge of starting my journey in Materials Science and Engineering as a first-year student. Plunging into the unfamiliar was not the norm for my previously timid and reserved self. Looking back now, I recognize a year filled with personal development, challenges, and countless enjoyable moments! 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 frequently one of the most daunting portions of commencing university, and if you are an incoming student, it may be a significant worry for you. On my initial day of moving into my residence, a few days before the term kicked off, I spent the whole day hiding in my room, too daunted to step out and introduce myself to others. However, today I can proudly assert that I’ve formed some of the most wonderful friendships here at university and within my program. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, and it all initiated with light conversations with individuals in similar circumstances. So, what did I realize? I discovered that taking a chance at the beginning of the year is always advantageous. If you feel unprepared or uneasy, don’t fret! There will be numerous ice-breaker gatherings to assist you in connecting with others. I also learned that being authentic is essential. With such a diverse range of people throughout the program and university, you are sure to encounter those who resonate with you.
Another obstacle was the workload and the complexity of the material. There was certainly an elevation from A-levels, and in some respects, an even more significant transition from the first to the second term. Being in such an environment can be difficult for your self-esteem; you may observe others studying and feel inferior. A few factors aided me during this period, one being the reassurance that everyone is navigating the same challenges. If something is unclear to you, I can almost promise that others are in the same predicament. So, don’t hesitate to seek help. This might be the single most crucial lesson to grasp in your first year. Reach out to your classmates and faculty for assistance!
This leads me to my next point. The faculty in Materials are exceptional. They genuinely want you to thrive and comprehend the difficulties that students experience. They show understanding and maintain ongoing communication throughout the year regarding our challenges. I didn’t fully tap into the support services until the year’s end, but I wish I had done so earlier. I’ve spoken about taking chances before – I took one by becoming a year well-being representative. This position enabled me to connect with the faculty, which is incredibly beneficial. There are numerous ways to engage with staff, and it’s one of the best decisions you can make for yourself! My primary lesson from this aspect of university is to leverage the assistance available. You can never have an excess of support!
Ultimately, this year has shown me that anxious feelings, both prior to and during university, are frequently unfounded and can be eased with the supportive resources from faculty and fellow students. It has taught me that I am never alone and how to find enjoyment amid pressures such as exams and deadlines.