Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Nearly a year ago, in October 2022, I felt anxious, apprehensive, and unsure about what lay ahead. I was on the verge of embarking on my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a newcomer. Venturing into the unfamiliar was not something my previously bashful and introverted self was used to. Looking back now, I realize that the year has been rich with personal development, obstacles, and a great deal of enjoyment! But what have I discovered throughout this year, and where do I stand now?
One of the first and most intimidating hurdles was forming friendships. This is undoubtedly one of the more daunting facets of commencing university, and if you’re reading this as a potential student, it may be one of your main worries. On my inaugural day moving into my residence, just a few days before the semester kicked off, I spent the entire day sequestered in my room because I felt too daunted to venture out and introduce myself to others. However, sitting here now, I can assertively say that I’ve forged some of the most amazing friendships I’ve ever had, both at this university and within this program. I’ve discovered a second family here at Imperial, and all it took was engaging in casual conversations with individuals facing similar circumstances. So, what did I learn? I found that it’s always advantageous to take a leap at the beginning of the year. If you don’t feel prepared or at ease, don’t fret! There will be numerous opportunities for ice-breaking and events to assist you in connecting with others. I also realized that if there’s one thing you can be, be yourself. With such a diverse array of individuals throughout the course and university, you are sure to find those who resonate with you.
Another obstacle was the intensity of the workload and complexity of the content. There was certainly a noticeable increase from A-levels, and in some respects, an even more significant jump from the first term to the second. Being placed in such an environment can occasionally be challenging for your self-esteem; you might observe others studying and feel inadequate. A few factors aided me in overcoming that feeling, one being the reminder that everyone shares the same experience. If you’re struggling to grasp something, I can nearly guarantee that there are others who do not comprehend it either. So, don’t hesitate to seek assistance. This could very well be the most crucial lesson to learn in your first year. Reach out to your peers and the faculty!
This leads me to my next observation. The faculty in Materials is exceptional. They genuinely want you to thrive and recognize that students encounter difficulties. They relate to students and maintain active communication with us throughout the year regarding our challenges. I didn’t fully leverage the pastoral support until the latter part of the year, but I wish I had done so earlier. I mentioned earlier about taking leaps – I did take one at the onset of the year by becoming a year well-being representative. This role enabled me to connect with the faculty members, which is immensely beneficial. There are multiple avenues to familiarize yourself with the staff, and it’s undoubtedly one of the best actions you can take for your well-being! My primary takeaway from this facet of university life is to make the most of the assistance that’s available to you. You can never have an excess of support!
Ultimately, this year has illuminated the fact that feelings of nervousness, both prior to and throughout university, are frequently baseless and can be eased with the myriad of support resources provided by staff and fellow students. It’s taught me that I’m never truly alone, and it has demonstrated how to enjoy myself in spite of pressures such as exams and deadlines.