Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months back, in October 2022, I was filled with anxiety and uncertainty regarding what lay ahead. I was about to embark on my journey in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Immersing myself in unfamiliar territory was not something my formerly shy self was used to. In hindsight, I recognize a year brimming with personal development, hurdles, and enjoyment! But what insights did this year provide, and where do I currently stand?
One of the primary and most intimidating hurdles was forging friendships. This is typically one of the most daunting aspects of starting university, and if you’re an incoming student, it could be a significant worry. On my initial day moving into my accommodation, a few days prior to the start of the term, I spent the entire day locked in my room, daunted by the prospect of venturing out and meeting new faces. Now, I can assertively claim I’ve formed some of the best friendships here at university and within my program. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, all of which began with casual conversations with individuals in comparable situations. So, what was my takeaway? I realized that taking a bold step at the beginning of the year is essential. If you don’t feel prepared, don’t fret! There will be numerous ice-breaking events designed to facilitate connections with others. I also recognized that being your true self is vital. With a diverse array of individuals across the program and university, you’re sure to find those who resonate with you.
Another hurdle was the demanding workload and the complexity of the material. There was certainly a noticeable leap from A-levels, and even more from the first term to the second. Being in such an environment can challenge your self-esteem; you might observe others studying and feel insufficient. What aided me was the realization that everyone is navigating similar challenges. If you find something perplexing, it’s likely that others do as well. So, don’t hesitate to seek assistance. This might be the key lesson from the first year. Reach out to peers and faculty!
This leads me to my subsequent point. The staff in Materials are exceptional. They are invested in your success and recognize the challenges students encounter. They show understanding and maintain consistent communication 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 tapped into it earlier. I mentioned taking bold steps – 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 avenues to engage with staff, and it’s one of the most advantageous actions you can take for yourself! My principal takeaway is to seize the support available. You can never have an excess of help!
Ultimately, this year revealed to me that apprehensive thoughts about university are frequently unfounded and can be mitigated through the support provided by staff and fellow students. It enlightened me that I’m never isolated and how to have fun even amid the pressures of exams and deadlines.