By Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I felt apprehensive and uncertain about embarking on my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a first-year student. Venturing into the unfamiliar was not something my previously reserved self was used to. Looking back on the past academic year, I recognize a path of personal development, obstacles, and enjoyment. What insights have I gained, and what is my current status?
One of the first and most intimidating hurdles was forming friendships. This can be daunting when beginning university, and if you’re an incoming student, it may be a significant concern. On my initial day of moving into housing, I remained in my room all day, too apprehensive to interact with new people. Now, I can proudly say I’ve forged some of the best friendships here at university and within my course. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, beginning with casual conversations with others in similar circumstances. What did I learn? It’s wise to take a chance at the start of the year. If you’re unprepared or uneasy, don’t fret! There will be numerous ice-breaking occasions and events to assist you in connecting with others. Also, be authentic. With such a diverse population in the course and university, you are sure to encounter like-minded individuals.
Another obstacle was the workload and the complexity of the material. There was a noticeable leap from A-levels, and an even larger jump from the first to second term. Being in such an atmosphere can impact your confidence; you may feel less capable compared to others. What helped me was recalling that everyone is facing similar challenges. If you find something confusing, chances are others are too. So, seek assistance. This could be the most crucial lesson in the first year. Don’t hesitate to ask peers and staff for help!
The faculty in Materials are exceptional. They genuinely want you to succeed and recognize the challenges students encounter. They are understanding and keep open lines of communication regarding our concerns. I didn’t fully leverage the support system until late in the year, but I wish I had done so earlier. I took a step at the beginning of the year by becoming a year well-being representative. This position allowed me to build relationships with the faculty, which is invaluable. There are many ways to engage with staff, and it’s one of the most beneficial actions you can take for yourself! My primary lesson is to capitalize on the available assistance. You can never have too much help!
This year has shown me that feelings of anxiety about university are often misplaced and can be eased with the support from both staff and fellow students. It taught me that I am never alone and how to find joy even in the face of exam pressures and deadlines.