By Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months prior, in October 2022, I was plagued by nerves, apprehension, and uncertainty regarding the future. I was on the verge of starting my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a newcomer. Venturing into the unknown was not something my previously introverted self was familiar with. Looking back now, I recognize a year filled with personal development, hurdles, and enjoyment. But what insights have I gained this year, and what is my current standing?
One of the initial and most daunting hurdles was building friendships. This is frequently one of the most intimidating aspects of embarking on university life, and if you’re an incoming student, it might be a significant worry for you. On my first day of moving into residence, a few days before classes started, I spent the entire day concealed in my room, too daunted to emerge and meet others. Today, though, I can proudly state that I’ve formed some of the best friendships I’ve ever had at this university and within this program. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, and it all began with casual conversations with others in comparable situations. So, what did I discover? I learned that taking the initiative at the beginning of the year is always beneficial. If you’re not entirely prepared or at ease, don’t fret! There will be numerous opportunities and events designed to help you engage with others. I also realized that if you can be anything, be authentic. With such a diverse array of individuals across the program and university, you’re sure to find those who connect with you.
Another challenge was managing the workload and the complexity of the material. There was absolutely a leap from A-levels and, in some respects, an even greater leap from the first term to the second. Being thrown into such an environment isn’t always easy for your self-esteem; you might observe others studying and feel like you don’t measure up. A few strategies helped me navigate that feeling, one being the reassurance that everyone is in the same situation. If you’re struggling to understand something, I can almost assure you that others are too. So, don’t hesitate to ask for assistance. This may be the single most crucial lesson to grasp in the first year. Reach out for help from your peers and the faculty!
This brings me to my next point. The staff in Materials are remarkable. They genuinely want you to thrive and acknowledge that students encounter challenges. They relate to students and maintain regular communication with us throughout the year regarding our concerns. I didn’t fully take advantage of the support services until the end of the year, but I wish I had done so earlier. I mentioned taking risks previously – I did take a risk at the start of the year by becoming a well-being representative. This role allowed me to connect with the staff members, which is immensely beneficial. There are countless opportunities to familiarize yourself with the staff, and it’s undoubtedly one of the best steps you can take for yourself! My primary lesson from this aspect of university life is to make the most of the support provided. You can never have too much!
In summary, this year has enlightened me that anxious feelings, both prior to and during university, are frequently unfounded and can be mitigated by the various support resources available from faculty and fellow students. It has taught me that I’m never alone and how to find joy despite pressures like exams and deadlines.