Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Back in October 2022, a mere ten months ago, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, fear, and uncertainty regarding what lay ahead. I was on the brink of commencing my studies in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Venturing into the unknown was not something my previously introverted and reserved self was used to. Reflecting on the past year, I perceive it as a period of personal development, challenges, and plenty of enjoyment! But what lessons have I gathered this year, and what is my status now?
One of the initial and most intimidating hurdles was forging friendships. This often stands as one of the most frightening aspects of entering university, and if you’re perusing this as a prospective student, it may be a significant worry for you. On my very first day of moving into my dormitory, a few days ahead of the academic term, I spent the entire day sequestered in my room, too daunted to venture out and meet others. However, today I can assert with confidence that I’ve formed some of the finest friendships I’ve ever experienced at this university and within this program. I’ve discovered a second family here at Imperial, and it all commenced with casual conversations with individuals in comparable circumstances. So, what did I take away from this? I realized that taking a risk at the beginning of the year is always advantageous. If you’re not completely ready or at ease, fret not! There will be numerous ice-breaking chances and events designed to assist you in connecting with others. I also came to understand that if you could embody one thing, it should be your authentic self. With such a wide array of people across the program and campus, you’re certain to encounter individuals who resonate with you.
Another obstacle was the workload and the difficulty of the material. There was certainly a leap from A-levels, and in certain respects, an even more significant jump from the first term to the second. Being thrust into such an environment can be a challenge for your self-esteem; you may observe others studying and feel inadequate. A few elements aided me in navigating that feeling, one being the reassurance that everyone shares the same experience. If you don’t grasp something, I can nearly guarantee that others are puzzled as well. So, don’t hesitate to reach out for assistance. This might be the most crucial lesson to learn during the first year. Look for support from your classmates and the faculty!
This leads me to my next point. The faculty in Materials are outstanding. They genuinely wish for your success and recognize that students face difficulties. They show understanding towards students and maintain ongoing communication with us throughout the year regarding our concerns. I didn’t truly utilize the pastoral support until the year’s conclusion, but I wish I had taken advantage of it earlier. I mentioned taking risks before – I did take one at the beginning of the year by serving as a year well-being representative. This position enabled me to connect with the staff, which is immensely beneficial. There are abundant opportunities to familiarize yourself with the staff, and it’s undoubtedly one of the best things you can do for yourself! My primary insight from this aspect of university life is to leverage the assistance available. You can never have an excess of support!
Overall, this year has illustrated to me that feelings of nervousness, both prior to and during university, are frequently unfounded and can be mitigated through the various support options provided by the faculty and fellow students. It has shown me that I’m never alone and how to enjoy my time despite stressors like exams and deadlines.