By Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Nearly a year ago, in October 2022, I felt nervous and uncertain about what lay ahead as I embarked on my journey in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Venturing into unfamiliar territory was not something my formerly reserved self was used to. Looking back now, I recognize a year filled with personal development, obstacles, and enjoyment. What insights have I gained, and what is my current status?
One of the first hurdles was forming friendships, a daunting aspect of beginning university. On my first day at my accommodation, I spent the whole day in my room, daunted by the prospect of interacting with new people. Now, I can proudly say I’ve forged some of the most meaningful friendships at the university and in my program. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, simply by engaging in casual conversations with others facing similar experiences. I learned that taking a chance at the year’s onset is advantageous. If you’re not prepared, don’t fret—there are numerous ice-breaker activities designed to help you meet new people. Be true to yourself, and you’ll encounter others like you.
Another obstacle was the intensity of the workload and the difficulty of the material, a clear leap from A-levels and even more so from the first to the second term. It can be a hit to your self-esteem, but keep in mind that everyone is experiencing the same challenges. If you find something confusing, it’s likely that others do too. Seeking assistance is vital in the first year, from both classmates and faculty.
The faculty in Materials are exceptional. They are invested in your success and are understanding of student challenges. They keep in touch throughout the year regarding our concerns. I didn’t utilize the pastoral support until the end of the year, but I wish I had taken advantage of it earlier. I took the initiative by becoming a year well-being representative, which allowed me to connect with faculty—an invaluable opportunity. There are numerous ways to familiarize yourself with staff, and it’s one of the most beneficial things you can do. Make the most of the support available; you can never have enough!
This year has shown me that anxiety surrounding university life is often unfounded and can be eased with support from staff and fellow students. I’ve discovered that I’m never alone and how to have fun in spite of the pressures from exams and deadlines.