Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months prior, in October 2022, I felt nervous and uncertain about what lay ahead. I was on the brink of starting my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Venturing into the unknown was not something my previously reserved self was used to. Looking back, I realize I’ve experienced a year rich in personal development, obstacles, and plenty of enjoyment! So, what lessons have I taken away, and where do I stand now?
One of the initial and most intimidating hurdles was forming friendships. This is frequently one of the most daunting aspects of beginning university, and if you’re an incoming student, it might significantly weigh on your mind. On my first day moving into my accommodation, I spent the whole day in my room, too daunted to step outside and mingle with others. Now, I can proudly assert that I’ve found some of the greatest friends here at university and in my program. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, which all began with casual conversations with others in similar situations. So, what did I take away from this? It’s ideal to take a chance at the beginning of the year. If you feel unprepared or uneasy, don’t fret! There will be numerous ice-breaker activities to assist in building connections with others. Moreover, be true to yourself. With so many diverse personalities, you’re sure to encounter those who resonate with you.
Another significant challenge was the intensity of the workload and content complexity. There was a noteworthy leap from A-levels, and an even larger leap from the first term to the second. Being in such an environment can certainly affect your confidence; you may feel insufficient compared to your peers. What aided me was the realization that everyone is navigating the same situation. If something is unclear to you, it’s likely unclear to others as well. Therefore, don’t hesitate to ask for assistance. This is perhaps the most crucial lesson from the first year. Reach out to classmates and faculty!
Speaking of faculty, those within the Materials department are outstanding. They genuinely want you to succeed and are aware of the challenges students encounter. They express understanding and keep lines of communication open throughout the year regarding any concerns. I didn’t utilize the pastoral support until the end of the academic year, but I wish I had taken advantage of it sooner. I mentioned taking leaps – I took one by becoming a wellbeing representative for the year. This position allowed me to connect with faculty, which is incredibly valuable. There are numerous avenues to familiarize yourself with staff, and it’s one of the best decisions you can make! My main lesson is to fully utilize the assistance available. You can never have too much support!
In summary, this year has shown me that anxious feelings surrounding university are often baseless and can be mitigated with the backing available from faculty and fellow students. I’ve learned I’m never alone and how to find joy even amidst stresses such as exams and deadlines.