Authored by Dawson La, Master of Engineering in Materials Science and Engineering
Nearly a year prior, in October 2022, I experienced a whirlwind of anxiety, trepidation, and uncertainty about what lay ahead. I was on the verge of starting my academic journey in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Immersing myself in unfamiliar territory was not typical for my previously introverted nature. Looking back, I recognize a year filled with personal development, obstacles, and plenty of enjoyment! But what insights have I gained this year, and what is my current state?
One of the first and most intimidating challenges I faced was developing friendships. This is certainly one of the more daunting elements of commencing university, and if you’re an incoming student, it might be among your top worries. On my initial day of moving into my residence, just days prior to classes starting, I spent the whole day retreating in my room, too overwhelmed to venture out and introduce myself. In contrast, I can now confidently state that I’ve formed some of the most meaningful friendships of my life at this university and within this program. I’ve discovered a second family here at Imperial, and it all initiated with casual conversations with others in similar circumstances. So, what did I learn? I discovered that it’s always beneficial to take a chance at the beginning of the year. If you’re feeling unprepared or uneasy, don’t fret! There will be numerous ice-breaker activities to help facilitate connections. I also realized that if you can embody one thing, let it be your true self. With such a diverse group of individuals across the program and university, you are sure to encounter those who resonate with you.
Another obstacle was the intensity of the workload and the complexity of the material. There was definitely a noticeable shift from A-levels, and in some respects, an even greater leap from the first term to the second. Being in such a challenging environment can test your self-esteem; you might observe others studying and feel out of place. A couple of strategies helped me maneuver through that sensation, one being the reassurance that everyone is navigating similar trials. If you find something confusing, I can almost assure you that there are others who share that confusion. Therefore, don’t hesitate to ask for assistance. This may be the most crucial lesson to grasp in the freshman year. Seek support from your classmates and the faculty!
This leads me to my next observation. The faculty in the Materials department are exceptional. They genuinely want you to thrive and comprehend the challenges students encounter. They relate to us and consistently communicate throughout the year regarding our concerns. I didn’t take advantage of the supportive resources until late in the year, but I wish I had done so earlier. I mentioned earlier about taking risks—I made one at the beginning of the year by becoming a year well-being representative. This position allowed me to connect deeply with the faculty, which is incredibly beneficial. There are numerous avenues to engage with faculty, and it’s one of the most advantageous things you can do for yourself! My key takeaway regarding this aspect of university is to capitalize on the assistance provided. You can never receive too much!
In summary, this past year has shown me that feelings of nervousness, both prior to and during university, are frequently baseless and can be eased by the supportive resources available from faculty and fellow students. It has clarified that I am never alone and how to find enjoyment amidst pressures such as examinations and deadlines.