Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Nearly a year ago, in October 2022, I felt anxious and uncertain about what lay ahead. I was on the brink of commencing my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Stepping into the unknown was not something my formerly reserved self was accustomed to. Looking back now, I see a year rich with personal development, hurdles, and enjoyment! But what insights have I gained, and what is my current standing?
One of the earliest and most intimidating obstacles was forming friendships. This can be quite daunting when starting university, and if you’re a future student, it may be a considerable worry. On my first day moving into my residence, I spent the whole day in my room, too apprehensive to venture out and meet others. Now, I can proudly state that I’ve made some of the best friends right here at this university and within this program. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, all stemming from casual conversations with others in similar situations. So, what lesson did I learn? It’s essential to take that first leap at the beginning of the year. If you’re not prepared or at ease, don’t stress! There will be ample ice-breaker events designed to help you bond with others. Also, if there’s one thing you can be, it’s yourself. With such a diverse group of individuals throughout the course and university, you’re sure to meet like-minded people.
An additional hurdle was the demands of the coursework and the complexity of the content. There was a significant leap from A-levels, with an even larger jump from the first to the second term. Being in such a setting can pose challenges to your confidence; you may observe others studying and begin to question your own capabilities. A few things assisted me during this time, one being the realization that everyone shares the same struggles. If you’re confused about something, chances are, so are others. Therefore, don’t hesitate to ask for assistance. This could be the most vital lesson to grasp in your first year. Reach out for help from your colleagues and faculty!
This leads me to my next observation. The faculty in the Materials department are outstanding. They genuinely want you to thrive and recognize that students face difficulties. They are sympathetic to students’ challenges and maintain open lines of communication regarding our concerns. I did not take advantage of the pastoral support until the close of the year, but I truly wish I had accessed it earlier. I spoke of taking leaps – I took one by becoming a year well-being representative. This position enabled me to connect with the staff, which is incredibly valuable. There are numerous ways to engage with faculty, and it’s one of the most beneficial actions you can take for yourself! My primary takeaway is to make the most of the assistance available. You can never have too much!
In summary, this year has illustrated to me that feelings of nervousness, both prior to and during university, are frequently unfounded and can be eased with the support available from staff and fellow students. It has revealed that I am never alone and has taught me how to have fun despite stressors such as exams and deadlines.