Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I was apprehensive, fearful, and uncertain about what lay ahead. I was on the brink of starting my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Jumping into the unknown wasn’t something my previously introverted and reserved self was familiar with. Looking back, I recognize a year brimming with personal development, obstacles, and plenty of enjoyment! So, what did this year impart to me, and what is my current standing?
One of the initial and most anxiety-inducing challenges I encountered was forming friendships. This is certainly among the more daunting facets of commencing university, and if you’re perusing this as an incoming student, it could be one of your foremost concerns. On my inaugural day settling into my accommodation, a few days ahead of the semester’s start, I spent the entire day concealed in my room because I was too daunted to step out and engage with others. Now, sitting here, I can assertively state that I’ve cultivated some of the most remarkable friendships I’ve ever had, right here at this university and within this program. I’ve established a second family here at Imperial, and all it required was initiating small conversations with individuals in similar circumstances. So, what have I taken away from this? I discovered that taking a chance at the beginning of the year is always advantageous. If you’re not feeling prepared or at ease, don’t fret! There will be numerous opportunities and events designed to help you connect with others. I also recognized that if you embody one quality, make it authenticity. There are so many diverse individuals across the program and university; you are sure to find people who resonate with you.
An additional obstacle I had to navigate was the workload and the complexity of the subjects. The transition from A-levels was certainly noticeable, and in certain respects, the leap from the first term to the second was even steeper. Being thrust into such an environment can be challenging for your self-esteem; witnessing others studying may lead you to feel inadequate. Several factors aided me in overcoming that feeling, one being the comforting thought that everyone is experiencing similar struggles. If there’s something you don’t grasp fully, I can nearly guarantee that several others are in the same position. So, don’t hesitate to ask for assistance. This might be the most crucial lesson to learn in your first year. Seek help from both your fellow students and the faculty!
This leads me to my subsequent point. The faculty in Materials are fantastic. They genuinely want you to succeed and understand that students face challenges. They connect with students and maintain open lines of communication with us throughout the year about our concerns. I didn’t truly leverage the pastoral support until the year’s end, but I wish I had done so earlier. I mentioned earlier about taking leaps – I took one at the start of the year by becoming a year well-being representative. This role allowed me to familiarize myself with the faculty members, which is immensely beneficial. There are various avenues to engage with staff, and it’s definitely one of the most advantageous actions you can take for yourself! My primary takeaway from this aspect of university is to make the most of the assistance you’re provided. You can never receive too much help!
Overall, this year has taught me that feelings of nervousness, both prior to and during university, are almost always unfounded and can be alleviated through the vast array of support options available from faculty and fellow students. It has shown me that I’m never isolated, and it has revealed how to find enjoyment amidst stressors such as exams and deadlines.