Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months prior, in October 2022, I was filled with anxiety and uncertainty about the future. I was on the verge of commencing my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Venturing into the unknown was not something my formerly reserved self was used to. Looking back now, I see a year brimming with personal development, hurdles, and a great deal of enjoyment! But what insights have I gained this year, and what is my current status?
One of the first and most intimidating hurdles was forging friendships. This is frequently one of the most daunting elements of beginning university, and for any prospective students, it may be a significant worry. On my initial day of moving into my accommodation, a few days prior to classes starting, I spent the whole day in my room, too daunted to venture out and meet others. Now, I can proudly state that I’ve formed some of the finest friendships here at university and within my course. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, and it all commenced with casual conversations with others facing similar challenges. What did I realize? I realized it’s beneficial to take a chance at the beginning of the year. If you’re not prepared, don’t fret! There are numerous ice-breaker events designed to assist you in connecting with others. Also, be authentic. With such a diverse population at the university, you’re sure to find those who resonate with you.
Another obstacle was the volume of work and the complexity of the content. There was certainly a noticeable increase from A-levels, and an even more significant leap from the first term to the second. Being in such an atmosphere can challenge your self-esteem; you might feel less capable compared to your peers. What aided me was the realization that everyone is in a similar situation. If something is baffling to you, it’s likely perplexing to others as well. So, don’t hesitate to seek assistance. This could be the most crucial lesson to grasp in your first year. Reach out to peers and faculty for support!
This leads me to my next insight. The faculty in Materials are amazing. They genuinely want you to thrive and are aware of the challenges students encounter. They relate to our struggles and keep open lines of communication with us throughout the academic year. I didn’t take advantage of the pastoral support until later in the year, but I wish I had done so earlier. I mentioned taking chances before—I embraced one by becoming a well-being representative for the year. This position enabled me to connect with the faculty, which is incredibly valuable. There are various ways to engage with staff, and it’s among the best things you can do for yourself! My key takeaway is to utilize the support available. You can never have too much help!
In summary, this year has shown me that feelings of nervousness, both prior to and during university, are often unwarranted and can be mitigated with the support provided by staff and fellow students. It taught me that I am never alone and how to find enjoyment despite pressures like exams and deadlines.