By Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I felt anxious and uncertain about beginning my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a first-year student. I wasn’t accustomed to stepping into new situations, but reflecting back, the year was filled with personal development, obstacles, and enjoyment. What insights have I gained, and what is my current status?
One of the early obstacles was forming friendships, a formidable part of starting university. On my first day in my accommodation, I remained in my room, daunted by the thought of meeting new people. Now, I can assert that I’ve developed some of the finest friendships here, creating a second family at Imperial. Having casual conversations with other students helped me understand the value of taking risks at the year’s outset. If you’re feeling unprepared, don’t stress—there are numerous ice-breaker events designed to assist you in connecting. Be authentic, and you will encounter individuals with similar interests.
Another hurdle was the workload and the complexity of the material, which was a significant advancement from A-levels and escalated from the first term to the second. It’s easy to doubt yourself, but keep in mind that everyone is navigating the same challenges. If something is unclear, chances are others are puzzled too, so don’t hesitate to seek assistance from classmates and faculty. This is vital during the first year.
The faculty in Materials are remarkable, understanding, and supportive. They maintain an open line of communication with students regarding any difficulties. I didn’t utilize the pastoral support until later in the year, but I wish I had done so earlier. I took a bold step by becoming a year well-being representative, which allowed me to connect with the staff—a worthwhile opportunity. Take full advantage of the resources available; there’s no such thing as too much assistance!
This year has shown me that anxious feelings about university are frequently unwarranted and can be eased with support from the staff and fellow students. I’ve realized I’m never on my own and learned how to find joy amid the stress of exams and deadlines.