By Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I was nervous and uncertain about what lay ahead. I was embarking on my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Venturing into the unfamiliar wasn’t something my formerly reserved self was accustomed to. Looking back now, I can see a year brimming with personal development, obstacles, and plenty of enjoyment! So, what insights have I gained, and what is my current status?
One of the first and most intimidating hurdles was forming friendships. This is frequently one of the most daunting facets of beginning university, and if you’re an incoming student, it may rank as one of your largest concerns. On the day I moved into my dorm, a few days prior to the start of the semester, I spent the whole day in my room, too daunted to venture out and meet others. Now, I can proudly say I’ve forged some of the best friendships here at university and within my program. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, and it all began with light conversation with others in comparable situations. What did I take away from this? It’s advisable to take a leap at the onset of the year. If you’re not prepared or at ease, don’t fret! There are numerous ice-breaker events designed to help you engage with fellow students. Additionally, if you can embody anything, be authentic. With so many diverse individuals across the program and university, you’re bound to encounter like-minded peers.
Another obstacle was managing the workload and the complexity of the material. There was certainly a shift from A-level studies, and an even more significant transition from the first term to the second. Being in such a setting can influence your self-esteem; you may observe others studying and feel inadequate. What helped me was the realization that everyone is navigating the same challenges. If you struggle with understanding something, it’s likely that others share the same difficulties. Therefore, seek assistance. This may be the most crucial skill to cultivate during your first year. Reach out to classmates and faculty for support!
This brings me to my subsequent point. The faculty in Materials are exceptional. They are dedicated to your success and are aware of the challenges students encounter. They sympathize and keep open lines of communication regarding our concerns. I didn’t fully take advantage of the pastoral support until late in the year, but I wish I had engaged with it earlier. I talked about taking bold steps – I made one by becoming a well-being representative for my year. This position enabled me to connect with the faculty, which is priceless. There are numerous avenues to engage with staff, and it’s one of the best actions you can take for yourself! My primary lesson is to utilize the support that is available. You can never have too much assistance!
All in all, this year has demonstrated to me that anxious sentiments regarding university are often baseless and can be mitigated with the support accessible from faculty and fellow students. I’ve realized that I am never alone and learned how to have fun despite pressures like exams and deadlines.