Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
In October 2022, ten months prior, I was filled with anxiety and uncertainty about what lay ahead. I was about to embark on my journey in Materials Science and Engineering as a fresh student. Venturing into the unknown was not something my formerly reserved self was accustomed to. Looking back, I recognize a year characterized by personal development, obstacles, and a lot of enjoyment! But what insights have I gained this year, and where do I stand now?
One of the first and most intimidating tasks was forging friendships. This is frequently one of the most daunting parts of commencing university, and if you’re an incoming student, it might be a significant worry. On my initial day of moving into my residence, a few days prior to the start of classes, I spent the whole day in my room, too fearful to step outside and meet new people. Today, I can proudly declare that I’ve formed some of the finest friendships here at this university and within my program. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, and it all initiated with casual conversations with others in similar circumstances. So, what did I take away from this experience? I learned that it’s essential to make a bold move at the beginning of the year. If you’re not prepared or at ease, don’t be concerned! There will be numerous ice-breaker events designed to facilitate connections with others. I also discovered that authenticity is crucial. With so many varied individuals throughout the program and university, you are sure to find those who resonate with you.
Another hurdle was the workload and the complexity of the material. There was undoubtedly a transition from A-levels, and in some respects, an even larger leap from the first term to the second. Being in such an environment can be challenging for your confidence; you might observe others studying and feel inadequate. What assisted me was remembering that everyone is experiencing similar challenges. If something is unclear, I can almost assure you others are struggling too. Therefore, don’t hesitate to ask for assistance. This might be the most crucial lesson of the first year. Seek support from both peers and staff!
This leads me to my next observation. The faculty in Materials are exceptional. They are genuinely invested in your success and comprehend the challenges that students encounter. They are empathetic and maintain open lines of communication regarding our concerns. I didn’t fully leverage the pastoral support until the year’s end, but I wish I had taken advantage of it earlier. I mentioned taking bold steps earlier – I took one by becoming a year well-being representative. This position enabled me to connect with the staff, which is immensely beneficial. There are numerous paths to engage with faculty, and it’s one of the best actions you can take for your own well-being! My primary takeaway is to utilize the support available to you. You can never receive too much assistance!
In conclusion, this year has taught me that feelings of nervousness, both prior to and during university, are frequently baseless and can be alleviated by the supportive options available from faculty and fellow students. It has shown me that I am never alone and how to find joy amid pressures such as exams and deadlines.