Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months prior, in October 2022, I felt anxious and uncertain about what lay ahead as I embarked on my journey in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Jumping into the unknown was not something my previously reserved self was used to. Looking back now, I recognize a year brimming with personal development, obstacles, and enjoyment. So, what insights have I gained, and what is my current status?
One of the first hurdles was forming friendships, which can be a daunting part of starting university. On my initial day in my accommodation, I remained in my room, feeling too intimidated to meet new acquaintances. Today, I can proudly state that I’ve formed some of the finest friendships here at university. I discovered a second family at Imperial by engaging in casual conversations with fellow students in similar situations. The essential lesson? Take a risk at the beginning of the year. If you’re not ready, don’t fret—there are numerous ice-breaking events to assist you. Be yourself, and you’ll encounter likeminded individuals.
Another obstacle was the demanding workload and challenging material. The leap from A-levels was considerable, even more so from the first term to the second. It’s easy to question your abilities, but keep in mind that everyone is navigating the same challenges. If something is unclear to you, it’s likely that others are confused as well. Therefore, do not hesitate to seek assistance—it’s vital in your first year. Reach out to classmates and faculty!
The faculty in Materials are exceptional. They genuinely want you to thrive and understand the challenges faced by students, maintaining open communication throughout the year. I wish I had taken advantage of pastoral support earlier. I ventured into the role of a well-being representative for my year, which enabled me to connect with staff—an invaluable experience. There are various ways to familiarize yourself with staff, and it’s one of the best decisions you can make. Make the most of the support provided; you can never have too much help!
This year has shown me that feelings of nervousness about university are often baseless and can be eased by the support available from faculty and peers. I’ve realized that I’m never alone and that I can have fun even amidst stressors such as exams and deadlines.