Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I felt anxious and uncertain about what lay ahead. I was on the verge of starting my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Stepping into the unknown was not something my formerly reserved self was used to. Looking back now, I recognize a year brimming with personal development, obstacles, and a lot of enjoyment! But what insights have I gained, and what is my current status?
One of the first and most intimidating hurdles was forming friendships. This is frequently one of the most nerve-wracking elements of beginning university, and if you’re an incoming student, it may be a significant worry for you. On my initial day moving into my residence, just days before classes commenced, I spent the entire day in my room, too daunted to venture out and meet others. Now, I can proudly say I’ve made some wonderful friendships here at university and in my program. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, and it all initiated with casual conversations with individuals in comparable situations. So, what did I realize? It’s beneficial to take a plunge at the start of the year. If you’re not ready or at ease, don’t fret! There will be ample ice-breaker activities to assist you in connecting with others. I also discovered that being authentic is essential. With such a wide array of individuals at the university, you’re sure to encounter those who resonate with you.
Another challenge was the volume of work and the difficulty of the material. There was a significant increase from A-levels, and an even larger jump from the first to the second term. Being in such an environment can be taxing on your self-esteem; you might observe others studying and feel inadequate. What aided me was remembering that everyone is in the same situation. If you don’t grasp something, others probably don’t either. So, don’t hesitate to ask for assistance. This may be the most vital lesson in the first year. Seek help from classmates and faculty!
This brings me to my next topic. The faculty in Materials are remarkable. They genuinely want you to thrive and comprehend the challenges students encounter. They empathize and consistently engage with us throughout the year. I didn’t fully take advantage of the pastoral support until the year’s end, but I wish I had done so earlier. I mentioned taking leaps earlier – I took one by becoming a well-being representative for my year. This position enabled me to connect with the faculty, which is invaluable. There are numerous avenues to engage with staff, and it’s one of the best choices you can make for yourself! My primary takeaway is to make the most of the support provided. You can never have an excess!
Ultimately, this year has illustrated that pre-university jitters are often misplaced and can be mitigated with the support available from staff and fellow students. It has demonstrated to me that I’m never solitary and how to find enjoyment amid the pressures of exams and deadlines.