Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I felt anxious and uncertain about what lay ahead. I was on the verge of starting my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Diving into the unfamiliar wasn’t something my previously reserved self was used to. Looking back now, I recognize a year filled with personal development, obstacles, and plenty of enjoyment! But what insights have I gained, and what is my current situation?
One of the first and most intimidating hurdles was forming friendships. This is frequently one of the most daunting parts of commencing university, and if you’re an incoming student, it might be your primary worry. On my initial day settling into my accommodation, a few days prior to classes starting, I spent the whole day in my room, too fearful to venture out and introduce myself. Now, I can assert with confidence that I’ve formed some of the best friendships here at university and within my course. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, and it all commenced with casual conversations with those in comparable situations. So, what did I discover? I learned that taking a chance at the beginning of the year is essential. If you don’t feel ready or at ease, don’t fret! There will be numerous ice-breaker events to assist you in connecting with others. I also realized that being authentic is vital. With so many diverse individuals throughout the course and university, you’re bound to encounter like-minded people.
Another challenge was managing the workload and the difficulty of the content. There was a significant leap from A-levels, and an even more profound leap from the first to the second term. Being in such a setting can be challenging for your confidence; you may feel inadequate in comparison to others. What aided me was recalling that everyone shares the same experience. If you don’t grasp something, it’s likely that others don’t understand either. So, don’t hesitate to ask for assistance. This might be the most crucial lesson in the first year. Seek guidance from peers and faculty!
This brings me to my next point. The faculty in Materials are exceptional. They are invested in your success and comprehend the challenges students encounter. They show empathy and keep open lines of communication with us regarding our concerns. I didn’t make use of the pastoral support until the year was almost over, but I wish I had taken advantage of it earlier. At first, I took a step forward by becoming a year well-being representative. This position enabled me to connect with the faculty, which is immensely beneficial. There are numerous ways to engage with staff, and it’s one of the most advantageous actions you can take for yourself! My key message is to leverage the support available. You can never have too much assistance!
In conclusion, this year has taught me that anxious feelings about university are often misplaced and can be eased with the support available from faculty and fellow students. I’ve realized I’m never alone and how to find enjoyment despite stressors like exams and deadlines.