Authored by Dawson La, Master’s in Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Twelve months prior, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, fear, and uncertainty about what lay ahead. I was about to embark on my journey in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Venturing into the unfamiliar was not something my formerly shy and introverted self was used to. Looking back now, I recognize a year filled with personal development, hurdles, and a ton of enjoyment! But what insights have I gathered, and what is my current position?
One of the first and most intimidating obstacles was establishing friendships. This frequently ranks as one of the most frightening elements of beginning university, and if you’re an incoming student, it might weigh heavily on your mind. On the day I moved into my dorm, a few days prior to classes commencing, I spent the entire time sequestered in my room, too fearful to venture out and interact with others. However, today I can proudly say I’ve forged some of the greatest friendships here at this university and in this program. I’ve created a second family at Imperial, beginning with casual conversations with fellow students in similar circumstances. So, what have I grasped? I learned that making a bold move at the year’s onset is always beneficial. If you find yourself feeling unprepared or uneasy, don’t fret! There will be abundant opportunities and activities designed to facilitate connections with others. I’ve also realized that if there’s one thing to be, it’s your authentic self. With such a diverse array of individuals throughout the course and university, you’re sure to discover kindred spirits.
Another hurdle was the volume of assignments and the complexity of the content. There was undeniably a leap from A-levels, and in certain respects, an even greater transition from the first term to the second. Being immersed in such a challenging atmosphere can take a toll on your self-esteem; you might observe others diving into their studies and feel inadequate by comparison. A few strategies helped me navigate that sensation, one being the reassuring thought that everyone is experiencing similar struggles. If something perplexes you, I can nearly assure there are others who are just as confused. So, seek assistance. This might be the most crucial lesson to learn during your first year. Don’t hesitate to reach out to your classmates and the faculty!
This leads me to my next remark. The faculty in Materials are exceptional. They genuinely desire for you to excel and understand that students encounter difficulties. They resonate with our challenges and maintain consistent communication with us regarding our concerns throughout the academic year. I didn’t fully utilize the support services until later in the year, but I wish I had sought them out earlier. I mentioned earlier about taking bold steps – I did take one at the beginning of the year by becoming a well-being representative for my year. This role enabled me to connect with the staff members, which is incredibly valuable. There are numerous avenues to engage with faculty, and it undoubtedly ranks among the best actions you can take for yourself! My primary takeaway from this aspect of university life is to utilize the assistance available to you. There’s no such thing as too much help!
In summary, this year has shown me that feelings of nervousness, both prior to and during university, are often unfounded and can be mitigated through the various support avenues provided by faculty and fellow students. It’s illustrated that I am never alone, and it has taught me how to find enjoyment amidst pressures like exams and deadlines.