Authored by Dawson La, MEng in Materials Science and Engineering
Nearly a year ago, in October 2022, I was filled with anxiety and uncertainty about what lay ahead. I was on the verge of starting my journey in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Venturing into the unfamiliar was not something my formerly reserved self was used to. Reflecting on the past year, I recognize it as a time of significant personal development, hurdles, and enjoyment! However, what have I learned over this year, and what is my current standing?
One of the early and most intimidating obstacles was forming friendships. This aspect often ranks among the most daunting when entering university, and prospective students may find it particularly worrying. On the first day of moving into my dorm, just days prior to classes starting, I spent the whole day within my room, feeling too shy to venture out and meet others. Today, I can proudly declare that 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 began with casual conversations with others facing similar experiences. So, what have I gleaned from this? It’s essential to take a chance at the beginning of the year. If you’re not entirely prepared or at ease, don’t fret! There will be ample ice-breaker events designed to facilitate connections with others. Additionally, be authentic. With such a diverse group of individuals throughout the course and university, you’re sure to encounter people who share your interests.
Another hurdle was the intensity of the workload and the complexity of the content. There was a clear escalation from A-levels, and an even more significant jump from the first term to the second. Being in such a competitive environment can undermine your confidence; you may observe others studying and begin to doubt your skills. What aided me was the realization that everyone faces similar challenges. If something is unclear to you, it’s likely others are struggling with it as well. Therefore, don’t hesitate to seek assistance. This might be one of the most essential lessons to grasp in your first year. Reach out for help from your peers and faculty!
On the subject of faculty, the Materials department is truly exceptional. They genuinely want you to thrive and are aware of the challenges that students encounter. They show understanding and keep an open dialogue throughout the year regarding our worries. I didn’t fully take advantage of the support services until late in the year, but I wish I had done so earlier. I mentioned earlier about taking chances – I did just that by volunteering to be a year well-being representative. This position enabled me to forge connections with staff members, which is incredibly beneficial. There are various opportunities to get acquainted with staff, and it’s one of the best decisions you can make for yourself! My main lesson is to utilize the resources available to you. You can never have too much assistance!
In summary, this year has taught me that feelings of nervousness, both prior to and during university, are frequently misplaced and can be eased by the support offered by both staff and fellow students. It has shown me that I am never truly alone and how to find joy even amid pressures like exams and deadlines.