Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months back, in October 2022, I felt anxious, fearful, and uncertain about what lay ahead. I was poised to embark on my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Diving into the unfamiliar was not something my formerly shy and reserved self was used to. Looking back, I now recognize a year filled with personal development, challenges, and a great deal of enjoyment! But what lessons has this year imparted, and what is my current situation?
One of the initial and most intimidating obstacles I encountered was forging friendships. This is certainly among the more daunting elements of commencing university, and if you are reading this as an incoming student, it might be one of your primary worries. On the day I moved into my accommodation, a few days before the term commenced, I spent the day concealed in my room, as I was too intimidated to venture out and introduce myself to others. However, sitting here today, I can confidently assert that I’ve formed some of the finest friendships I’ve ever had, right here at this university and in this program. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, and all it required was engaging in light conversation with individuals in comparable situations. So, what did I uncover? I discovered that it’s always beneficial to take that initial leap at the year’s onset. If you’re feeling a bit unprepared or uneasy, don’t fret! There will be numerous ice-breaking chances and events designed to aid you in connecting with others. I also found that if you can embody one quality, be yourself. There are countless diverse individuals throughout the course and university; you’re sure to encounter people like you.
Another challenge I needed to surmount was the workload and the complexity of the content. There was undeniably a transition from A-levels, and in some respects, an even larger leap from the first term to the second. Being placed in such an environment can sometimes be challenging for your confidence; you might observe others studying and feel inadequate. Several factors assisted me in overcoming that sensation, one being the reminder that everyone else is navigating the same challenges. If you find something perplexing, I can nearly guarantee that there are at least a handful of others who also find it confusing. Thus, seek assistance. This may very well be the most critical skill to acquire in your first year. Reach out for help from your peers and the faculty!
This leads me to my subsequent point. The faculty in Materials are exceptional. They genuinely want you to succeed and understand that students face difficulties. They relate to our struggles and keep an open line of communication with us throughout the year regarding our concerns. I didn’t genuinely make use of the pastoral support until the year’s conclusion, but I wish I had done so earlier. I mentioned embracing challenges early on – I did take a step at the beginning of the year by becoming a year well-being representative. This role allowed me to connect with the staff members, which is immensely beneficial. There are numerous avenues to familiarize yourself with the faculty, and it’s undoubtedly one of the best things you can do for yourself! My primary lesson from this aspect of university life is to seize the assistance available to you. You can never have an excess!
In general, this year has conveyed to me that feelings of nervousness, both prior to and during university, are nearly always unmerited and can be mitigated by the plethora of support options offered by faculty and fellow students. It has taught me that I am never truly alone, and it has enlightened me on how to have fun amidst stressors such as exams and deadlines.