Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months prior, in October 2022, I felt apprehensive and uncertain about what lay ahead as I geared up to commence my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Venturing into the unknown was not something my previously introverted and reserved self was familiar with. Looking back now, I recognize a year brimming with personal development, obstacles, and a great deal of fun. So, what insights have I gained from this year, and what is my current standing?
One of the first and most intimidating hurdles was forming friendships. This aspect of starting university often feels overwhelming, and incoming students may find it particularly concerning. On my initial day moving into my housing, just before the semester kicked off, I remained in my room the entire day, too scared to venture out and meet others. Now, I can proudly say that I’ve cultivated some of the finest friendships I’ve ever experienced at this university and within my program. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, which all began with casual conversations with people in the same boat. So, what have I taken away from this? I realized that taking a chance at the beginning of the year is always advantageous. If you’re not prepared or at ease, don’t stress! Numerous opportunities and events will arise to help you connect with others. I also discovered that authenticity is essential. With such a variety of individuals across the program and university, you are sure to meet those who resonate with you.
Another hurdle was coping with the workload and the difficulty of the material. There was definitely an increase in intensity compared to A-levels, and an even more significant jump from the first to the second term. Being in such an environment can challenge your confidence; you might observe others studying and feel insufficient. A few things aided me in overcoming this, one being the reminder that everyone shares the same experience. If you struggle with a topic, it’s almost certain that others do too. So, don’t hesitate to seek assistance. This could be the most vital takeaway from the first year. Reach out to your peers and faculty for help!
This leads me to my next point. The faculty in Materials are outstanding. They genuinely want you to succeed and understand the challenges students encounter. They resonate with students and consistently communicate about our concerns throughout the year. I didn’t fully capitalize on the pastoral support until the end of the year, but I wish I had accessed it sooner. I talked about taking leaps earlier – I took one by becoming a year well-being representative. This position enabled me to connect with the staff, which is extremely beneficial. There are numerous avenues to engage with faculty, and it’s one of the best things you can do for yourself! My key insight from this facet of university is to make the most of the support provided. You can never have too much assistance!
In summary, this year has shown me that feelings of anxiety, both before and during university, are often misplaced and can be eased with the various support resources available from staff and fellow students. It has taught me that I’m never isolated and how to find joy amidst pressures like exams and deadlines.