Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
In October 2022, ten months ago, I felt anxious and uncertain about what lay ahead as I embarked on my journey in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Venturing into the unfamiliar was not something my previously reserved self was used to. Looking back over the last academic year, I recognize a path of personal development, obstacles, and enjoyment. So, what insights have I gained, and where do I stand now?
One of the first hurdles was forming friendships, which was a tough aspect of beginning university. On my first day of moving into my residence, I spent the entire day in my room, feeling too daunted to introduce myself. Today, I can proudly say I’ve forged some of the greatest friendships here at university. I’ve built a second family at Imperial, simply by striking up casual conversations with others in similar circumstances. The takeaway? Make an effort at the beginning of the year. If you’re feeling unprepared, don’t fret—there are numerous ice-breaker events designed to help. Be yourself, and you’ll encounter people who resonate with you.
Another obstacle was the volume of work and the level of difficulty, a significant leap from A-levels, notably from the first term to the second. It’s easy to feel inadequate, but keep in mind, everyone shares the same experience. If something isn’t clear to you, it’s likely others have the same confusion. Seek assistance—this is vital during your first year. Reach out for help from classmates and faculty!
The staff in Materials are exceptional. They genuinely want you to thrive and recognize the challenges students encounter. They engage with us regarding our concerns. I didn’t utilize pastoral support until later in the academic year, but I wish I had done so earlier. I took the initiative to become a well-being representative for my year, which facilitated my connection with staff—a valuable experience. There are plenty of opportunities to familiarize yourself with faculty, and it’s advantageous. Make the most of the support available; you can never have too much!
This year has shown me that the anxiety surrounding university is often misplaced and can be mitigated with the support of both staff and fellow students. I’ve realized I’m never alone and can find enjoyment even amidst pressures like exams and deadlines.