Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months prior, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, apprehension, 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 unfamiliar was not something my previously timid and reserved nature was accustomed to. Now, as I reflect, I recognize a year filled with personal development, obstacles, and a great deal of enjoyment! But what insights have I gained this year, and where do I stand at this moment?
One of the first and most intimidating challenges I encountered was forming friendships. This is undoubtedly one of the more daunting elements of initiating university life, and if you are a prospective student reading this, it may be one of your greatest worries. On my inaugural day moving into my living quarters, just days before the term kicked off, I spent the whole day confined to my room, too daunted to venture out and meet others. Yet, sitting here now, I can assert with confidence that I’ve forged some of the finest friendships I’ve ever experienced, right here at this university and within this program. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, all beginning with casual conversations with individuals in similar circumstances. So, what was my takeaway? I learned that it’s always advisable to take a chance at the beginning of the year. If you don’t feel entirely prepared or at ease, don’t fret! There will be ample ice-breaker opportunities and activities to facilitate connections with others. I also discovered that if there’s one thing you can be, be true to yourself. With such a diverse array of individuals in the course and university, you’re sure to meet people who resonate with you.
Another challenge I had to navigate was the volume of work and the complexity of the material. There was certainly a transition from A-levels, and in many ways, an even greater leap from the first term to the second. Being thrust into such a demanding environment can sometimes be tough on your self-esteem; you may observe others studying and feel inadequate. A few things helped me through that sense of doubt, one being the reminder that everyone else is in the same situation. If you find something puzzling, I can almost assure you that others are equally confused. Therefore, seek assistance. This may well be the most crucial lesson to learn in your first year. Don’t hesitate to ask for help from both your classmates and the faculty!
This leads me to my next point. The faculty in Materials are incredible. They genuinely want you to excel and recognize that students face hardships. They show compassion towards students and maintain ongoing communication with us throughout the year regarding our challenges. I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support until the latter part of the year, and I wish I had done so earlier. I mentioned earlier about taking chances – I did take one at the onset of the year by becoming a year well-being representative. This role allowed me to connect with the staff members, which is immensely valuable. There are numerous opportunities to engage with staff, and it is undoubtedly one of the best things you can do for yourself! My main takeaway from this aspect of university is to capitalize on the assistance available to you. You can never have too much!
On a broader scale, this year has imparted the lesson that anxious feelings, both leading up to and during university, are almost always unfounded and can be eased with the multitude of support options offered by staff and fellow students. It has taught me that I am never alone, and it has shown me how to find joy amidst sources of stress such as exams and deadlines.