Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I was filled with anxiety and uncertainty regarding the future as I readied myself to embark on my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Venturing into the unknown was not something my formerly introverted self was used to. Now reflecting on the past year, I see it has been a time of personal development, challenges, and enjoyment. But what insights have I gained, and what is my current state?
One of the first and most intimidating challenges was establishing friendships. This is often one of the most frightening parts of beginning university, and for prospective students, it could be a significant dilemma. On my first day moving into my accommodation, a few days prior to classes starting, I spent the whole day in my room, too apprehensive to venture out and meet others. Today, I can assertively say I have made some of the finest friends here, creating a second family at Imperial. It all commenced with casual conversations with others in comparable situations. What did I discover? It’s crucial to take a chance at the beginning of the year. If you’re not prepared, don’t fret! There will be numerous ice-breaker activities to assist you in connecting with others. Additionally, be true to yourself. With a multitude of diverse individuals, you are sure to find those who resonate with you.
Another hurdle was the volume of work and the complexity of the content. There was certainly a notable increase from A-levels, and an even greater leap from the first to the second semester. Being in such a setting can influence your self-assurance; you may feel inferior compared to your peers. What aided me was the realization that everyone is experiencing similar challenges. If you find something confusing, chances are others do as well. Therefore, don’t hesitate to seek assistance. This might be the most crucial lesson of the freshman year. Reach out for help from fellow students and faculty!
The faculty in Materials are exceptional. They genuinely want you to thrive and comprehend the challenges students encounter. They show empathy and maintain open lines of communication throughout the year. I didn’t fully leverage the pastoral support until later, but I wish I had done so earlier. I took a risk by becoming a year well-being representative, which facilitated my interaction with the staff, a priceless opportunity. There are numerous avenues to connect with faculty, and it’s one of the best decisions you can make for yourself! My main takeaway is to capitalize on the support available. You can never have too much!
In summary, this year showed me that the anxieties surrounding pre-university experiences are often unfounded and can be eased with the support provided by staff and fellow students. I’ve learned that I’m never isolated and how to find enjoyment in spite of pressures like exams and deadlines.