By Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I felt anxious and unsure about my future as I prepared to embark on my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a first-year student. Venturing into the unknown was not something my previously shy self was familiar with. Looking back now, I reflect on a year filled with personal development, challenges, and enjoyable experiences. What insights have I gained, and what is my current state?
One of the earliest and most intimidating hurdles was making connections. This is often a significant worry for newcomers to university. On the first day of moving into my residence, I spent the whole day in my room, too shy to step out and meet others. Now, I can proudly say I’ve formed some of the best friendships here, creating a second family at Imperial. It all began with casual conversations with others facing similar circumstances. I discovered that taking the initiative at the beginning of the year is advantageous. If you’re not prepared, don’t stress—there are plenty of ice-breakers and events designed to facilitate connections. Just be your genuine self; with such a diverse community, you’re sure to find like-minded people.
Another significant challenge was the volume of work and the complexity of the material. The leap from A-levels was substantial, and the transition from the first to the second term felt even more pronounced. This setting can challenge your self-esteem, especially when you measure yourself against others. Keep in mind that everyone is navigating the same situation. If you’re confused about something, chances are others are too, so don’t hesitate to seek help. This is essential in your first year. Look for support from classmates and faculty!
The faculty in the Materials department are exceptional. They genuinely wish for students to thrive and recognize the difficulties involved. They keep in touch with us throughout the year. I didn’t take full advantage of the pastoral support until later, but I regret not doing so earlier. I took a step forward by becoming a year well-being representative, which helped me connect with the faculty—a valuable experience. There are numerous ways to familiarize yourself with the staff, and it’s among the best decisions you can make. Utilize the resources available; you can never have too much assistance!
This year has shown me that feelings of anxiety about university are often baseless and can be eased with the support from staff and fellow students. I’ve realized that I’m never truly alone and have learned how to enjoy my time even amidst pressures like exams and deadlines.