Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Nearly a year ago, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, fear, and uncertainty regarding the future. I was on the brink of starting my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Stepping into the unknown was not something my formerly timid and introverted self was familiar with. Looking back now, I recognize a year filled with personal development, obstacles, and a great deal of enjoyment! But what insights have I gained, and what is my current position?
One of the first and most intimidating hurdles was forging friendships. This is frequently one of the most daunting elements of commencing university, and if you’re an incoming student, it may be a significant worry for you. On my initial day of moving into my housing, just days before classes started, I spent the entire day confined to my room, too daunted to venture out and meet others. Today, I can proudly state that I’ve formed some of the best friendships I’ve ever had, right here at this university and in this program. I’ve found a second family at Imperial, and it all kicked off with casual conversations with individuals facing similar circumstances. So, what did I take away from this? I recognized that taking a leap at the start of the year is beneficial. If you’re not entirely prepared or at ease, don’t fret! Numerous ice-breaker events will assist you in connecting with others. I also discovered that being authentic is crucial. With such a wide array of individuals across the course and university, you’re sure to encounter those who resonate with you.
Another obstacle was the amount of work and the complexity of the material. There was certainly an increase in difficulty compared to A-levels, and in some respects, an even greater jump from the first term to the second. Being placed into such an environment can be challenging for your confidence; you might observe others studying and feel less capable. A few strategies helped me combat this feeling, one being the realization that everyone is experiencing similar challenges. If you don’t grasp something, I can nearly assure you that others are facing the same issue. So, don’t hesitate to ask for assistance. This may be the most essential skill to cultivate in your first year. Reach out for help from both peers and faculty!
This leads me to my subsequent point. The faculty in Materials are outstanding. They genuinely want you to succeed and comprehend the challenges students encounter. They are empathetic towards us and maintain ongoing communication throughout the year about our concerns. I didn’t fully take advantage of the pastoral support until the year’s end, but I wish I had utilized it earlier. I previously mentioned taking leaps – I took one at the beginning of the year by becoming a year well-being representative. This position allowed me to engage with faculty members, which is immensely beneficial. There are many opportunities to get to know the staff, and it’s among the best actions you can take for yourself! My primary lesson from this aspect of university is to make the most of the assistance available. You can never have too much support!
In summary, this year has shown me that those anxious feelings, both before and during university, are often unwarranted and can be eased through the various support resources offered by staff and fellow students. It’s revealed to me that I’m never alone and has taught me how to enjoy my time despite the pressures of exams and deadlines.