Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Nearly a year ago, in October 2022, I felt nervous and uncertain about what lay ahead. I was on the verge of starting my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Diving into unfamiliar waters was not something my previously reserved self was used to. Reflecting on the year, I recognize it as a period rich in personal development, obstacles, and enjoyment! But what lessons has this year imparted, and what is my current situation?
One of the initial and most intimidating hurdles was forming friendships. This often stands out as one of the most daunting facets of commencing university, and if you’re a future student, it may be a significant worry. On my first day of moving into my residence, just days before the semester kicked off, I remained in my room all day, feeling too overwhelmed to venture out and meet others. Now, I can proudly state that I’ve made some remarkable friends here at university and in this program. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, which all began with casual conversations with those in similar predicaments. So, what lesson did I take away? It’s wise to leap at the beginning of the year. If you’re not yet prepared or comfortable, don’t stress! There will be numerous ice-breaker chances and events designed to help you engage with others. I also realized that if you can embody anything, let it be your true self. With such a diverse range of individuals across the program and university, you’re certain to find like-minded people.
Another challenge I faced was the rigorous workload and the complexity of the material. There was definitely a transition from A-levels, and in some respects, an even greater shift from the first term to the second. Navigating such a challenging environment can be hard on your self-esteem; you might observe others studying and feel inadequate in comparison. A few things helped me cope with those feelings, one being the acknowledgment that everyone is experiencing similar challenges. If something isn’t clear to you, I can almost assure you that others are in the same situation. So, don’t hesitate to seek assistance. This might be the key lesson to glean in your first year. Reach out for help from classmates and faculty!
This leads me to my next point. The faculty in Materials are exceptional. They genuinely desire your success and recognize that students face difficulties. They show understanding towards students and maintain ongoing communication about our concerns. I didn’t fully take advantage of the support services until late in the year, but I wish I had engaged with them earlier. I talked about taking leaps – I made one at the beginning of the year by becoming a year well-being representative. This role enabled me to connect with the faculty, which is immensely beneficial. There are numerous opportunities to engage with faculty, and it’s one of the most positive steps you can take for yourself! My primary takeaway from this segment of university life is to utilize the resources available to you. You can never have too much support!
In summary, this year has taught me that anxious feelings, both prior to and during university, are frequently unwarranted and can be mitigated through the various support systems provided by faculty and fellow students. I’ve discovered that I’m never alone, and I’ve learned how to find joy even amidst pressures like exams and deadlines.