Composed by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I felt nervous and uncertain about what lay ahead. I was on the verge of starting my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Venturing into the unfamiliar wasn’t an experience my previously introverted self was used to. Reflecting on the year, I recognize it was filled with personal development, challenges, and a great deal of enjoyment! But what insights have I gained, and where do I find myself now?
One of the initial and most intimidating obstacles was forming friendships. This can be one of the most frightening elements of starting university, and if you’re an incoming student, it may be a significant worry. On the first day of moving into my residence, just a few days before classes started, I spent the entire day in my room, too daunted to venture out and meet others. Now, I can proudly affirm that I’ve forged some of the best friendships I’ve ever known, both at this university and within my program. I’ve discovered a second family here at Imperial, and it all kicked off with brief conversations with individuals in similar situations. So, what did I glean? I realized that taking a bold step at the beginning of the year is always beneficial. If you’re not prepared or feel uneasy, don’t fret! There will be numerous ice-breaker events designed to help you connect with others. I also discovered that being true to yourself is essential. With such a diverse group of individuals across the program and university, you’re sure to find those who connect with you.
Another hurdle was the level of workload and difficulty of the material. There was certainly a leap from A-levels, and an even larger leap from the first term to the second. Being in such a setting can undermine your confidence; you might see peers studying and feel insufficient. What assisted me was remembering that everyone shares similar experiences. If you struggle to grasp something, there are probably others who do too. Therefore, seek assistance. This might be the most crucial lesson to absorb in your first year. Reach out for help from your classmates and the faculty!
This brings me to my next point. The faculty in Materials are exceptional. They genuinely want you to thrive and grasp the difficulties students encounter. They show empathy and keep in continuous contact with us throughout the year. I didn’t fully make use of the pastoral support until the year’s end, but I wish I had done so earlier. I spoke earlier about taking leaps – I took one by becoming a well-being representative for my year. This position enabled me to build relationships with the staff, which is incredibly beneficial. There are numerous ways to engage with faculty, and it’s one of the best things you can do for your own benefit! My primary takeaway from this aspect of university is to make the most of the support provided. You can never have an excess of assistance!
Overall, this year has shown me that feelings of anxiety, both prior to and during university, are frequently baseless and can be eased through the resources available from the faculty and fellow students. It has taught me that I’m never isolated and how to find enjoyment, even amidst pressures like exams and deadlines.