Authored by Dawson La, MEng in Materials Science and Engineering
Ten months back, in October 2022, I felt apprehensive and uncertain about what lay ahead as I got ready to embark on my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Venturing into the unknown was not familiar territory for my previously reserved self. Looking back over the past academic year, I recognize a journey filled with personal development, obstacles, and enjoyment. What insights have I gained, and what is my current position?
One of the earliest and most intimidating hurdles was establishing friendships. This often ranks as one of the most daunting parts of beginning university, and if you are an incoming student, it might be a major concern for you. On my initial day of moving into my residence, just days before the semester began, I remained in my room all day, too daunted to step outside and introduce myself. Now, I can proudly say I’ve built some of the greatest friendships here at the university and within my program. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, and it all originated from casual conversations with others in similar situations. What have I learned? It’s beneficial to take a chance at the start of the year. If you’re not prepared or comfortable, that’s okay! There will be ample ice-breaker activities to facilitate connections with others. I also discovered that being genuine is essential. With such a variety of individuals throughout the program and university, you’re sure to encounter those who connect with you.
Another obstacle was managing the workload and the complexity of the material. There was a clear transition from A-levels, and an even greater shift from the first to the second term. Being in this setting can be challenging for your self-esteem; you might observe others studying and question your own capabilities. Keep in mind, everyone is navigating the same challenges. If something doesn’t make sense, chances are others are struggling too. So, don’t hesitate to seek assistance. This could be the most vital skill to cultivate in your first year. Reach out for help from peers and faculty!
This brings me to my subsequent point. The staff in the Materials department are phenomenal. They genuinely want you to thrive and are aware of the difficulties students encounter. They understand and maintain open lines of communication regarding our worries. I didn’t fully take advantage of the pastoral support until the end of the year, but I wish I had taken that step sooner. I mentioned earlier about taking leaps; I took one by becoming a well-being representative for the year. This position allowed me to engage with staff members, which is invaluable. There are numerous ways to connect with staff, and it’s one of the most beneficial things you can do for yourself! My primary takeaway is to make the most of the support available. One can never have too much!
In summary, this year has shown me that the anxiety linked to university is frequently unwarranted and can often be mitigated by the support provided by staff and fellow students. I’ve come to realize that I’m never alone and have learned how to find joy amidst the pressures of exams and deadlines.