By Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months prior, in October 2022, I was filled with nerves, fear, and uncertainty about the future. I was about to embark on my journey in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Taking the plunge into the unknown wasn’t something my formerly shy and reserved self was prepared for. Reflecting back, I realize it has been a year rich in personal growth, challenges, and enjoyment! But what lessons have I gleaned from this year, and what is my current state?
One of the initial and most anxiety-inducing hurdles was forming friendships. This is undoubtedly one of the more intimidating facets of starting university, and if you are considering this as a potential student, it might be one of your greatest concerns. On my first day settling into my accommodation, just days before classes commenced, I spent the whole day cloistered in my room, too daunted to step out and greet others. However, sitting here now, I can assert that I’ve formed some of the most incredible friendships I’ve ever had, right here in this university and within this program. I’ve established a second family at Imperial, and all it took was engaging in brief conversations with individuals experiencing similar feelings. So, what did I take away from this? I’ve learned that it’s always advantageous to take a chance at the beginning of the year. If you don’t feel entirely prepared or at ease, don’t fret! There will be plenty of opportunities for ice-breaking and activities to facilitate connections with others. I’ve also discovered that above all else, you should be yourself. There is a diverse range of individuals across the program and university; you are guaranteed to find others like you.
Another challenge was the volume of work and the complexity of the material. There was certainly a leap from A-levels, and in some ways, an even more significant shift from the first term to the second. Being immersed in such an environment can be challenging for your confidence; you might observe others studying and feel inadequate. A few strategies helped me combat that feeling, one being the reminder that everyone is navigating the same waters. If you find something unclear, I can almost assure you that there are at least a few others who feel the same. So, don’t hesitate to ask for assistance. This may be the most crucial lesson to learn in your first year. Seek help from your peers and the faculty!
This leads me to my subsequent point. The faculty in Materials are outstanding. They genuinely want you to succeed and are aware that students encounter difficulties. They show compassion towards students and maintain regular communication with us throughout the year regarding our concerns. I didn’t really take advantage of the pastoral support until the year’s end, but I wish I had engaged with it earlier. I mentioned earlier about taking leaps – I took one at the year’s beginning by becoming a year well-being representative. This role allowed me to connect with faculty members, which is immensely beneficial. There are countless ways to familiarize yourself with staff, and it’s undoubtedly one of the best decisions you can make for your own benefit! My key takeaway from this aspect of university life is to make the most of the support offered to you. You can never have too much!
In a broader sense, this year has taught me that feelings of apprehension, both prior to and during university, are nearly always unfounded and can be alleviated by the numerous support options available from faculty and fellow students. It’s taught me that I’m never alone, and it’s shown me how to enjoy my experiences alongside the pressures such as exams and deadlines.