Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Back in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, fear, and uncertainty regarding the future. I was about to embark on my journey in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Embracing the unknown was not something my previously introverted and reserved self was familiar with. Looking back now, I acknowledge a year brimming with personal development, obstacles, and a lot of enjoyment! So, what insights has this year provided, and what is my current position?
One of the foremost and most intimidating challenges was forging friendships. This certainly ranks among the more daunting components of commencing university, and if you’re reading this as an incoming student, it might be one of your primary worries. On my arrival day at my accommodation, just days before the term started, I spent the whole day secluding myself in my room, too frightened to venture out and meet others. Today, however, I can proudly say I’ve established some of the closest friendships here at university and within my program. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, and it initiated with casual conversations with others in the same boat. So, what did I discover? I realized that taking a chance at the beginning of the year pays off. If you feel unprepared or uneasy, don’t fret! There will be countless opportunities for ice-breakers and events to facilitate connections with others. I also realized that if you can be one thing, be authentic. With such a diverse group of people in the program and the university, you’re sure to meet individuals who share your interests.
Another hurdle was the intensity of the workload and the complexity of the material. There was certainly an increase from A-levels, and in some respects, an even larger shift from the first term to the second. Being thrust into such a scenario can be a challenge for your self-esteem; you might observe others studying and feel inferior. A few strategies assisted me in overcoming this sensation, one being the awareness that everyone shares the same experience. If you find a topic confusing, I can almost assure you there are others who also struggle. Therefore, don’t hesitate to seek assistance. This could be the most crucial lesson to grasp in your first year. Don’t shy away from asking for help from classmates and faculty!
This leads me to my subsequent point. The faculty in Materials are phenomenal. They genuinely want you to thrive and are attuned to the challenges students encounter. They show understanding and maintain ongoing dialogue with us throughout the year regarding our concerns. I didn’t take full advantage of the pastoral care until the year’s end, but I wish I had embraced it earlier. I previously mentioned taking risks – I made one at the beginning of the year by becoming a year well-being representative. This role allowed me to connect with the faculty, which is incredibly rewarding. There are numerous avenues to engage with staff, and it’s undoubtedly one of the best things you can do for your personal development! My key lesson from this aspect of university is to leverage the support offered to you. You can never have too much assistance!
All in all, this year has demonstrated that feelings of nervousness, both before and during university, are often misplaced and can be eased with the plethora of support available from staff and fellow students. It has taught me that I am never alone, and it has shown me how to find joy even amidst pressures such as exams and deadlines.