Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I felt a mix of anxiety and uncertainty about what lay ahead. I was on the verge of starting my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Immersing myself into the unknown was not something my formerly timid self was used to. Looking back now, I recognize a year brimming with growth, obstacles, and enjoyment! What insights have I gained, and where do I stand today?
One of the first and most intimidating hurdles was forming friendships. This is frequently a significant worry for incoming university students. On my initial day settling into my accommodation, I remained in my room for the entire day, too apprehensive to connect with new people. Now, I can assertively state that I’ve forged some of the best friendships here at university. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, all beginning with casual conversations with others in the same boat. I realized it’s important to take a chance at the start of the year. If you’re feeling unprepared, don’t fret! There are various ice-breaking activities to assist you in meeting others. Plus, be authentic. With such a diverse group at the university, you will surely find those who align with you.
Another obstacle was managing the workload and the challenging content. There was a significant gap between A-levels, and an even larger leap from the first term to the second. Being in this type of environment can impact your self-esteem; you may feel inferior in comparison to others. Keep in mind, everyone shares the same experience. If something is unclear to you, it’s likely that others are feeling the same way. So, seek help! This is vital during the first year. Reach out to classmates and faculty!
The faculty in Materials are exceptional. They genuinely want you to thrive and are aware of student challenges. They keep us updated on our concerns. I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support until the year’s end, but I wish I had engaged sooner. I made a bold move by becoming a well-being representative for my year, which strengthened my connection with the staff, a fantastic opportunity. There are numerous ways to get acquainted with staff, and it’s one of the best things you can do for your own benefit! Take full advantage of the support available. You can never have too much!
This year revealed to me that feelings of nervousness regarding university are often baseless and can be eased with the support offered by both staff and students. I’ve discovered that I’m never alone and learned how to have fun despite the pressures from exams and deadlines.