Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months prior, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, fear, and uncertainty regarding my future. I was on the verge of starting my journey in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Embracing the unknown was far from what my previously introverted and reserved nature was used to. In hindsight, I recognize a year brimming with personal development, hurdles, and a great deal of enjoyment! But what insights has this year provided, and what is my current position?
One of the earliest and most intimidating hurdles was forging friendships. This is frequently one of the most daunting elements of initiating university life, and if you’re an incoming student perusing this, it might weigh heavily on your mind. On my first day of moving into my accommodation, just days before classes commenced, I spent the whole day confined to my room, too daunted to go out and introduce myself. In contrast, today I can proudly say I’ve cultivated some of the finest friendships here at university and in my program. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, and it all began with light conversations with others in similar predicaments. So, what have I grasped? I’ve discovered that taking a bold step at the beginning of the year is always rewarding. If you’re not completely prepared or comfortable, don’t fret! There will be numerous opportunities for ice-breaking and events to assist you in connecting with others. I also came to realize that authenticity is vital. With such a wide array of diverse individuals within the course and university, you’re sure to encounter those who resonate with your vibe.
Another obstacle was the heavy workload and the complexity of the content. There was certainly a noticeable increase from A-levels, and in some respects, an even greater transition from the first term to the second. Being thrust into such an environment can challenge your confidence; you may observe others studying and feel like you’re falling short. A few factors assisted me in overcoming this sensation, one being the reminder that everyone is navigating the same journey. If you don’t grasp something, I can nearly assure you others are in a similar predicament. Therefore, don’t hesitate to seek assistance. This could be the most essential lesson to absorb in the first year. Reach out for support from peers and staff!
This leads me to my next observation. The staff in Materials are exceptional. They genuinely want you to thrive and recognize that students encounter obstacles. They show empathy towards us and maintain ongoing communication throughout the year regarding our challenges. I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support until the year’s end, but I wish I had done so earlier. I mentioned previously about taking leaps – I did take one by becoming a year well-being representative. This position enabled me to connect with the staff, which holds immense value. There are numerous ways to engage with faculty, and it’s undeniably one of the best things you can do for yourself! My primary takeaway from this facet of university life is to leverage the support available. You can never have too much!
In summary, this year has demonstrated to me that feelings of nervousness, both before and during university, are frequently unfounded and can be mitigated through the support options accessible from staff and fellow students. It has revealed to me that I am never alone and has taught me the art of enjoying myself amidst stressors like exams and deadlines.