Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, back in October 2022, I felt anxious and uncertain about what lay ahead as I got ready to embark on my Materials Science and Engineering degree as a freshman. Engaging in new experiences wasn’t characteristic of my previously reserved nature. Looking back now, I recognize a year filled with personal development, hurdles, and enjoyment. What insights have I gained this year, and what is my current standing?
One of the first and most intimidating obstacles was forming friendships. Starting university can be daunting, and if you’re an incoming student, this may be a significant worry. On my initial day in my accommodation, I remained in my room the whole time, too nervous to interact with others. Now, I’m proud to say I’ve forged some of the best friendships during my time at university and within my program. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, which began with casual conversations with those in similar predicaments. What did I come to understand? It’s essential to make the initial move at the beginning of the year. If you’re unsure, don’t stress! There are many ice-breaker activities available to assist you in connecting with others. Additionally, be true to yourself. With such a wide variety of individuals at the university, you’re sure to find those who resonate with you.
Another hurdle was the level of workload and the complexity of the material. There was a clear escalation from A-levels and an even more significant leap from the first to the second term. Being in such a demanding environment can shake your confidence; you might feel less capable in comparison to others. What aided me was the realization that everyone is navigating the same landscape. If you’re struggling to grasp something, chances are others are as well. So, don’t hesitate to seek help. This may be one of the most crucial lessons in your first year. Reach out to fellow students and faculty!
This brings me to my next point. The faculty in the Materials department are exceptional. They genuinely want you to thrive and are aware of the challenges students face. They are sympathetic and keep the lines of communication open concerning our concerns. I didn’t take advantage of the pastoral support until the end of the year, and I wish I had done so earlier. I took a step forward by becoming a well-being representative for my year, which enabled me to form relationships with the staff—a truly rewarding experience. There are numerous ways to connect with faculty, and it’s one of the best decisions you can make for yourself! My primary takeaway is to make the most of the assistance available. You can never receive too much support!
In summary, this year has shown me that pre-university anxieties are often baseless and can be alleviated through support from faculty and fellow students. I’ve come to understand that I’m never truly alone and how to enjoy myself even amidst the pressures of exams and deadlines.