Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
In October 2022, ten months ago, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, apprehension, and uncertainty about 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 introverted and quiet self was used to. Reflecting back, I recognize a year filled with personal development, hurdles, and a lot of enjoyment! But what insights have I gained this year, and what is my current standing?
One of the first and most formidable obstacles was forging friendships. This aspect is frequently one of the most intimidating when entering university, and if you’re an incoming student, it might rank among your primary worries. On my initial day settling into my accommodation, just a few days before classes commenced, I spent the entirety of the day retreating to my room, feeling too daunted to venture out and meet others. However, today, I can proudly assert that I’ve cultivated some of the finest friendships I’ve ever had, right here at this university and within this program. I’ve built a second family at Imperial, which all began with casual conversations with fellow newcomers. So, what have I discovered? I learned that taking a chance at the beginning of the year is always advantageous. If you’re not completely prepared or at ease, fret not! There will be numerous ice-breaking chances and events to facilitate connections with others. I also discovered that if there’s one thing to be, it’s yourself. With so many diverse personalities across the program and university, you’re sure to find individuals who resonate with you.
Another hurdle was the intensity of the workload and the challenge of the material. There was certainly a transition from A-levels, and in some respects, an even steeper transition from the first term to the second. Being thrust into such a setting can be harsh on your self-esteem; you might observe others studying and feel underqualified. A few things aided me in coping with that sensation, one of which was the reminder that everyone shares the same experience. If something is unclear, I can almost assure you that there are others who are equally baffled. So, don’t hesitate to seek assistance. This might be the most crucial lesson to grasp in the first year. Reach out for help from your fellow students and the faculty!
This leads me to my subsequent point. The faculty in Materials is exceptional. They genuinely desire for you to thrive and recognize that students face challenges. They express understanding towards students and maintain ongoing communication with us throughout the year regarding our concerns. I didn’t take advantage of the pastoral support until the year’s end, but I wish I had done so earlier. I mentioned earlier about taking risks – I took one at the start of the year by becoming a well-being representative. This role enabled me to connect with the staff, which is incredibly beneficial. There are numerous opportunities to engage with the staff, and it is undoubtedly one of the best things you can do for your well-being! My primary takeaway regarding this aspect of university is to leverage the available support. You can never receive too much!
Ultimately, this year has illuminated that feelings of nervousness, both prior to and throughout university, are often baseless and can be eased with the support systems provided by faculty and fellow students. It has revealed to me that I’m never alone and how to find enjoyment even amidst pressures like exams and deadlines.