Authored by Dawson La, MEng in Materials Science and Engineering
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I was brimming with anxiety, fear, and uncertainty about what lay ahead. I was on the verge of starting my journey in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Engaging with the unknown was not something my formerly shy and reserved self was used to. Looking back now, I recognize a year filled with personal development, hurdles, and a great deal of enjoyment! But what insights have I gained, and where do I stand now?
One of the primary and most intimidating challenges was forming friendships. This aspect of beginning university is frequently one of the most frightening, and if you’re an incoming student, it may weigh heavily on your mind. On my first day settling into my accommodation, a few days prior to the start of classes, I spent the whole day sequestered in my room, far too daunted to venture out and meet others. Now, I can proudly state that I’ve forged some of the most amazing friendships here at university and within my course. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, and it all commenced with casual conversations with others in similar circumstances. So, what did I discover? It’s best to take a leap at the start of the academic year. If you’re not prepared or at ease, don’t fret! There will be a multitude of ice-breaking opportunities and events to assist you in bonding with others. I also found that being authentic is essential. With such a variety of people across the course and university, you’re sure to encounter like-minded individuals.
Another hurdle was the volume of work and the difficulty of the content. There was a significant leap from A-levels, and an even more substantial jump from the first to the second term. Being in such an environment can test your confidence; you might observe others studying and feel inferior. What helped me navigate this was the realization that everyone is experiencing the same challenges. If a concept is elusive to you, it is likely that others aren’t grasping it either. So, don’t hesitate to ask for help. This might be the most crucial lesson from my first year. Seek assistance from both peers and faculty!
This leads me to my next point. The faculty in Materials are phenomenal. They genuinely want you to thrive and comprehend the difficulties students encounter. They relate to students and maintain open lines of communication regarding our concerns. I didn’t fully leverage the pastoral support available until the year’s end, but I wish I had done so earlier. I spoke of taking leaps earlier—I embraced that by becoming a well-being representative for the year. This position granted me the opportunity to get acquainted with the staff, which is tremendously beneficial. There are numerous ways to engage with faculty, and it’s one of the most advantageous actions you can take for yourself! My key takeaway from this aspect of university is to make the most of the assistance provided. You can never have too much support!
All in all, this year has shown me that feelings of nervousness, both prior to and during university, are frequently unwarranted and can be alleviated with the support options offered by faculty and fellow students. It has taught me that I am never alone and how to find joy despite pressures like exams and deadlines.