By Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months back, in October 2022, I felt anxious and uncertain about what lay ahead as I embarked on my journey in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Venturing into the unknown was not something my previously reserved self was familiar with. Looking back now, I recognize a year filled with personal development, obstacles, and enjoyment. 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 a significant concern for new university attendees. On my initial day moving into my accommodation, I spent the whole day hiding in my room, too nervous to engage with others. Now, I can proudly say I’ve forged some incredible friendships here, building a second family at Imperial. It began with casual conversations with those experiencing similar situations. I discovered that taking initiative at the start of the year proves advantageous. If you don’t feel ready, that’s okay—there are plenty of social events to assist. Be yourself; among such a diverse group, you’ll find those who resonate with you.
Another obstacle was managing the workload and the complexity of the content. The transition from A-levels was considerable, and the leap from the first to the second term was even larger. In such an atmosphere, self-doubt can creep in, but keep in mind that everyone else is experiencing the same challenges. If you find something confusing, chances are others do too. So, seek assistance. This is essential in the first year—look for help from both peers and faculty!
The faculty in Materials are remarkable. They genuinely wish for your success and are aware of the challenges students face, keeping communication open throughout the year. I didn’t take advantage of pastoral support until later on, but I wish I’d utilized it sooner. I made a bold move by becoming a year well-being representative, which allowed me to engage with staff, a great opportunity. There are numerous ways to connect with faculty, and it’s one of the most beneficial things you can do. Make the most of the support available—you can never have enough!
This year has shown me that feelings of anxiety regarding university are often baseless and can be alleviated through the support provided by staff and fellow students. I’ve come to understand that I’m never truly alone and how to enjoy my time even amidst the pressures of exams and deadlines.