Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Nearly a year ago, in October 2022, I found myself feeling anxious and uncertain about what lay ahead. I was on the verge of starting my journey in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Embracing the unknown was not something my previously reserved self was familiar with. Looking back at the last academic year, I can recognize it as a path of personal development, obstacles, and great enjoyment! But what insights have I gained, and what is my current state?
One of the first and most intimidating hurdles was forging friendships. This often ranks as one of the most daunting elements of beginning university, and if you’re an incoming student, it may pose a significant worry. On my initial day settling into my residence, just prior to the start of the term, I spent the whole day locked in my room, too daunted to step outside and meet new people. Now, I can say with confidence that I’ve formed some of the most incredible friendships here at university and within my program. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, and it all started with casual conversations with others in similar situations. So, what did I take away from this? It’s best to make a bold move at the beginning of the year. If you’re not prepared or feel uneasy, don’t fret! Numerous ice-breaker activities are available to assist you in connecting with others. Additionally, just be yourself. With such a diverse array of individuals across the program and campus, you are sure to find those who resonate with you.
Another obstacle I faced was the intensity of the coursework and the complexity of the material. There was a significant shift from A-levels, and an even larger jump from the first to the second term. Being in this kind of setting can impact your self-esteem; you may feel less capable in comparison to peers. What assisted me was the realization that everyone else is navigating the same experience. If you encounter confusion, chances are others do too. Therefore, don’t hesitate to seek help. This may be the most vital lesson from the first year. Reach out to fellow students and faculty for assistance!
This brings me to my subsequent point. The faculty in the Materials department are outstanding. They genuinely want you to thrive and comprehend the challenges students endure. They empathize and keep open lines of communication regarding our concerns. I didn’t fully leverage the pastoral support until late in the year, but I wish I had utilized it earlier. I mentioned taking bold steps – I did that by becoming a year well-being representative. This position enabled me to engage with faculty members, which is priceless. There are various ways to familiarize yourself with faculty, and it’s one of the best actions you can take for your own benefit! My primary takeaway is to make full use of the resources available. You can never have too much support!
In conclusion, this year has shown me that feelings of nervousness about university are usually unfounded and can be eased with the assistance offered by faculty and fellow students. I’ve come to realize that I am never alone, and I’ve learned how to make the most of my time even amidst pressures such as exams and deadlines.