Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months back, in October 2022, I felt anxious and uncertain about what lay ahead as I embarked on my journey in Materials Science and Engineering as a first-year student. Venturing into the unknown was not something my previously timid self had experienced. In hindsight, I recognize a year brimming with personal development, obstacles, and plenty of enjoyment! But what insights have I gained, and what is my current status?
One of the first and most intimidating challenges was forming friendships. This is frequently a significant worry for newcomers in university, and if you’re considering this as a prospective student, it might be on your mind as well. On my initial day settling into accommodation, just days before the term commenced, I spent the entire day in my room, too daunted to venture out and interact with others. Today, I can proudly state that I’ve forged some of the finest friendships here at university and within my program. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, and it all initiated with casual conversations with individuals in comparable situations. What did I discover? It’s beneficial to take a chance at the beginning of the year. If you’re not prepared or at ease, don’t fret! Numerous ice-breaker events will assist you in connecting with others. Furthermore, be genuine. With such a wide array of people across the course and university, you’re sure to find your group.
Another obstacle was the volume of work and the complexity of the content. There was a clear increase in difficulty from A-levels, and an even greater jump from the first to the second term. Being in such an environment can challenge your self-esteem; you might observe others studying and feel inadequate. What assisted me was the realization that everyone is experiencing similar challenges. If you find something unclear, it’s likely that others do as well. Therefore, seek assistance. This may be the most vital lesson in the first year. Request help from peers and faculty!
This brings me to my next point. The faculty in Materials are exceptional. They genuinely want you to thrive and comprehend the challenges students encounter. They understand and consistently communicate with us regarding our concerns. I didn’t fully take advantage of the pastoral support until the conclusion of the year, but I wish I had done so earlier. I took a bold step at the beginning of the year by becoming a year well-being representative. This position allowed me to connect with the staff, which is invaluable. There are numerous ways to engage 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!
In summary, this year has taught me that pre-university anxieties and those encountered during university are often baseless and can be mitigated with the support provided by staff and fellow students. I’ve discovered that I’m never alone and how to have fun even amidst pressures like examinations and deadlines.