Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I felt anxious and uncertain about what lay ahead as I embarked on my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Venturing into the unknown was not something my formerly shy self was accustomed to. Looking back, I realize that this year has been filled with personal development, obstacles, and a lot of enjoyment! But what insights have I gained, and what is my current state?
One of the earliest and most intimidating challenges was forming friendships. This is frequently one of the most daunting aspects of starting university, and if you’re a prospective student, it may be a significant worry. On my first day moving into my lodgings, I spent the entire day in my room, too fearful to venture out and meet new people. Now, I can proudly say I’ve forged some of the best friendships here at university and in my program. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, all beginning with casual conversations with those in similar circumstances. So, what have I learned? It’s advisable to take a chance at the beginning of the year. If you’re not ready, don’t fret! There will be numerous icebreaker events to assist in connecting with others. Also, prioritize being yourself. Among the diverse group of people in the course and university, you are bound to find those who share your interests.
An additional challenge was the volume of work and the complexity of the material. There was a clear leap from A-levels, and an even greater jump from the first term to the second. Being in such an atmosphere can shake your confidence; you may feel inferior compared to others. What assisted me was remembering that everyone is experiencing the same struggles. If something is unclear to you, others are likely in the same situation. Thus, don’t hesitate to ask for assistance. This is perhaps the most important lesson to learn in your first year. Seek help from classmates and instructors!
This brings me to my next point. The faculty in Materials is exceptional. They genuinely desire your success and are aware of the challenges students encounter. They empathize with us and keep open lines of communication regarding our concerns. I didn’t fully take advantage of the support services until the end of the year, but I wish I had done so earlier. I mentioned taking chances previously – I took one by becoming a year well-being representative. This position enabled me to establish connections with the faculty, which is invaluable. There are numerous ways to engage with staff, and it’s one of the best choices you can make for yourself! My primary takeaway is to make the most of the available support. You can never have enough assistance!
In summary, this year has shown me that anxieties about university are often misplaced and can be alleviated with the support provided by staff and fellow students. I’ve realized that I’m never alone and discovered how to have fun despite the pressure from exams and deadlines.