Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Approximately ten months ago, back in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, fear, and uncertainty regarding what lay ahead. I was on the verge of commencing my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Venturing into the unknown was far from what my previously introverted and reserved self was used to. Looking back now, I recognize a year filled with personal development, obstacles, and plenty of enjoyment! But what insights have I gained this year, and what is my current position?
One of the foremost and most formidable hurdles was forging friendships. It is undeniably one of the more daunting aspects of initiating university life, and if you’re reading this as a future student, it might be among your greatest worries. On my first day moving into my residence, a few days prior to the term’s commencement, I spent the entire day sequestered in my room, too daunted to step out and introduce myself to others. Today, I can proudly assert that I have formed some of the finest friendships I’ve ever had, here at this university and within this course. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, and it all began with casual chats with individuals in similar situations. So, what did I take away from this? I realized that taking a leap at the beginning of the year is always advantageous. If you don’t feel prepared or at ease, don’t fret! There will be numerous ice-breaking occasions and events to assist you in connecting with others. I also discovered that if you can embody anything, be authentic. With such a diverse group of individuals throughout the course and university, you’re sure to encounter like-minded peers.
Another challenge involved the demands of the workload and the complexity of the material. There was undeniably a significant increase compared to A-levels, and in some respects, an even greater leap from the first term to the second. Being thrown into such an environment can be tough on your confidence; you might observe others studying and feel inadequate. A few strategies aided me in overcoming that sensation, one being the reminder that everyone is facing similar challenges. If something doesn’t make sense, I can almost assure you that others are puzzled as well. So, don’t hesitate to seek assistance. This could be the most vital skill to cultivate during your freshman year. Reach out for help from your classmates and the faculty!
This leads me to my subsequent point. The faculty in Materials are exceptional. They genuinely wish for your success and recognize that students encounter difficulties. They empathize with students and keep open communication with us throughout the year regarding our concerns. I didn’t fully leverage the pastoral support until the conclusion of the year, but I wish I had done so earlier. I mentioned previously about taking leaps – I made one at the beginning of the year by becoming a year well-being representative. This position enabled me to build relationships with the faculty members, which is immensely beneficial. There are many ways to connect with the staff, and it’s undoubtedly one of 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 to you. You can never have too much!
In summary, this year has shown me that feelings of nervousness, both before and during university, are frequently baseless and can be mitigated by the various support resources provided by staff and fellow students. It has taught me that I am never solitary and how to find enjoyment even amidst pressures like exams and deadlines.