Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months prior, in October 2022, I felt anxious, fearful, and uncertain about what lay ahead. I was on the verge of starting my Materials Science and Engineering degree as a freshman. Diving into the unknown was not something my formerly timid and reserved nature was familiar with. Looking back now, I recognize a year rich in personal development, obstacles, and plenty of enjoyment! But what lessons has this year imparted, and what is my current standing?
One of the initial and most intimidating challenges I encountered was forging friendships. This aspect of commencing university is undeniably one of the more fearsome, and if you’re reading this as a future student, it may be one of your primary concerns. On my first day of moving into my accommodations, a few days ahead of the semester, I spent the entire day in my room out of apprehension to leave and mingle with others. Reflecting from this point, I can say with assurance that I’ve cultivated some of the best friendships I’ve ever had at this university and in this program. I’ve established a second family here at Imperial, and all it required was engaging in casual conversation with those in comparable situations. So, what did I glean? I discovered that it’s always beneficial to take a chance at the beginning of the year. If you don’t feel entirely prepared or at ease, don’t fret! There will be ample ice-breaking occasions and activities to facilitate connections with others. I also learned that if you can embody one quality, it should be authenticity. With such a diverse range of individuals throughout the program and university, you are sure to meet others like you.
Another obstacle I needed to navigate was the volume and complexity of the coursework. There was certainly a transition from A-levels, and in some aspects, an even greater leap from the first term to the second. Being thrust into such an environment can be challenging for your confidence; you may observe others studying and feel inadequate. Some factors assisted me in coping with that sentiment, one being the reassurance that everyone is navigating similar experiences. If something doesn’t make sense to you, I can almost assure you that there are several others who also find it confusing. So, seek assistance. This may very well be the most crucial lesson to learn in your first year. Reach out for help from both your classmates and the faculty!
This leads me to my subsequent point. The faculty in Materials is outstanding. They genuinely want you to succeed and understand that students can struggle. They relate to students and maintain continuous communication with us throughout the year regarding our challenges. I didn’t fully utilize the support services until the latter part of the year, but I wish I had taken advantage of them sooner. I spoke of taking leaps earlier—I did indeed take one at the year’s inception by becoming a year well-being representative. This role allowed me to connect with the faculty, which is incredibly beneficial. There are numerous ways to become acquainted with the staff, and it’s unquestionably one of the best things you can do for your own benefit! My primary lesson from this facet of university life is to seize the opportunities for assistance that are available to you. You can never have too much!
On a wider scale, this year has shown me that feelings of nervousness, both prior to and during university, are typically baseless and can be alleviated through the various support resources provided by staff and fellow students. It has taught me that I am never alone, and it has guided me on how to have fun alongside stressors like exams and deadlines.