Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Twelve months ago, in October 2022, I felt anxious and uncertain about what lay ahead as I commenced my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Venturing into the unfamiliar was not something my previously timid self was used to. Looking back now, I see a year marked by personal development, challenges, and enjoyment. What insights have I gained, and where do I stand now?
One of the foremost and most intimidating hurdles was forging friendships. This can be one of the most frightening elements of starting university, and if you’re an incoming student, it may be a significant worry. On my first day in my accommodation, days prior to the term starting, I spent the entire day in my room, too apprehensive to venture out and meet others. Now, I can proudly state that I’ve made some of the finest friends here at university and in my program. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, and it began with casual conversations with others facing similar situations. What have I learned? It’s beneficial 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 activities to facilitate connections with others. Additionally, be true to yourself. With so many diverse individuals around you, you’ll discover those who resonate with you.
Another obstacle was the academic workload and the difficulty of the material. There was a noticeable increase from A-levels, and an even greater leap from the first to the second term. Being in such an environment can influence your confidence; you may feel inadequate observing others studying. Remember, everyone is experiencing similar challenges. If something isn’t clear to you, others probably do not understand it either. Therefore, seek assistance. This might be the most vital lesson during the first year. Reach out for support from fellow students and staff!
This leads me to my next point. The faculty in Materials are exceptional. They genuinely want you to thrive and are aware of the struggles faced by students. They are empathetic and actively communicate regarding our challenges throughout the year. I did not utilize the pastoral support until the year’s end, but I wish I had taken advantage of it earlier. I mentioned taking leaps – I did so by becoming a year well-being representative. This position enabled me to connect with the staff, which is invaluable. There are various avenues to engage with the faculty, and it’s one of the best decisions you can make! My primary takeaway is to take advantage of the assistance available. You can never have too much help!
In summary, this year has shown me that apprehensive feelings about university are frequently unfounded and can be mitigated with the support available from both staff and students. I’ve realized that I’m never alone and how to enjoy my time, even amidst the pressures of exams and deadlines.