Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months prior, in October 2022, I felt anxious and uncertain about what was ahead. I was on the cusp of starting my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Embracing the unknown was not something my formerly reserved self was familiar with. Reflecting now, I recognize a year filled with personal development, obstacles, and fun. But what lessons did this year impart, and where do I stand now?
One of the first and most intimidating hurdles was forging friendships. This is frequently a major worry for new university students. On my initial day of moving into residence, just before the semester started, I spent the whole day in my room, too daunted to venture out and meet new people. Now, I can assert that I’ve formed some of the best friendships during my time at university and within my course. I’ve created a second family at Imperial, and it all commenced with brief conversations with others in similar circumstances. What did I learn? It’s beneficial to take a risk at the start of the year. If you’re hesitant, don’t fret! There are numerous ice-breaker events designed to assist in connecting with others. Additionally, be yourself. With such a diverse group of individuals at the university, you’re likely to find those who you vibe with.
An additional challenge was the increased workload and complexity of the material. There was a noticeable escalation from A-levels, and an even steeper one from the first to the second term. Being in such an environment can shake your confidence; you might feel inferior in comparison to your peers. Keep in mind, everyone shares this experience. If you’re struggling with a concept, others probably are too. So, don’t hesitate to seek assistance. This is essential to grasp in your first year. Reach out for help from peers and staff!
This brings me to my next point. The staff in Materials are outstanding. They genuinely want you to thrive and understand the challenges students face. They keep open lines of communication regarding our concerns. I didn’t fully take advantage of the pastoral support until later in the year, but I wish I had done so earlier. I took a chance by becoming a year well-being representative, which enabled me to connect with staff—an invaluable opportunity. There are many avenues to familiarize yourself with staff, and it’s one of the best things you can do for yourself! My key takeaway is to make the most of the support available. You can never have too much!
Ultimately, this year illustrated that feelings of nervousness about university are frequently baseless and can be eased with the support provided by staff and students. It revealed to me that I am never alone and taught me to find joy amidst the stress of exams and deadlines.