By Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months prior, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, fear, and uncertainty about what lay ahead. I was about to embark on my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a newcomer. Such a significant step was quite foreign to my previously introverted and quiet self. Looking back, I now recognize a year filled with personal development, obstacles, and a lot of enjoyment! So, what insights has this year provided me, and what is my current situation?
One of the earliest and most intimidating hurdles was forming friendships. This is frequently one of the most daunting parts of entering university, and if you’re an incoming student, it may be your top concern. On my first day in my residence, just a few days before classes started, I remained in my room all day, feeling too nervous to step out and meet others. Today, I can proudly say I’ve formed some of the greatest friendships here at university and within my program. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, and it all commenced with casual conversations with those in comparable situations. What have I learned? Taking the plunge at the beginning of the year is essential. If you’re not prepared or comfortable, don’t fret! There will be numerous ice-breaker activities to assist you in connecting with fellow students. Also, just remain authentic. With such a diverse group at the university, you are sure to find others who resonate with you.
Another challenge involved managing the workload and grasping the content’s complexity. There was a significant leap from A-levels, and an even greater one from the first term to the second. Being in this kind of environment can undermine your self-esteem; you may notice others studying and feel insufficient. What assisted me was remembering that everyone is experiencing similar struggles. If you’re puzzled by something, it’s likely that others are too. Therefore, don’t hesitate to seek assistance. This could be the most vital skill to hone during your first year. Reach out to classmates and faculty!
This leads me to my next observation. The faculty in Materials are outstanding. They genuinely want you to succeed and comprehend the challenges students encounter. They relate to us and maintain open lines of communication throughout the year. I didn’t fully take advantage of the support services until the end of the year, but I wish I had recognized their value earlier. Earlier, I mentioned taking leaps – one such leap was becoming a year well-being representative. This position allowed me to connect with faculty, which is incredibly beneficial. There are various ways to engage with the staff, and pursuing this is one of the best choices you can make for yourself! My primary lesson is to make the most of the assistance available. You can never receive too much support!
In summary, this year has shown me that feelings of apprehension, both prior to and during university, are mostly unwarranted and can be eased with the support provided by staff and fellow students. It has revealed to me that I’m never alone and how to find enjoyment despite the pressures of exams and deadlines.