Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Nearly ten months ago, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with apprehension, fear, and uncertainty regarding what lay ahead. I was on the verge of starting my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Venturing into the unknown was not something my previously shy and reserved self was familiar with. Looking back on the past academic year, I can see a path of personal growth, obstacles, and plenty of enjoyment! But what insights has this year provided, and what is my current standing?
One of the first and most frightening hurdles was forming friendships. This is certainly one of the more fearsome aspects of beginning university, and for prospective students, it may pose a significant worry. On my initial day moving into my dormitory, a few days prior to the commencement of term, I spent the entire day within my room, too daunted to venture out and meet others. However, reflecting upon this now, I can assertively say that I’ve built some of the most rewarding friendships during my time at university and within my program. I’ve cultivated a second family at Imperial, all commencing with trivial conversations with individuals in similar situations. What did I discover? I learned that taking a risk at the beginning of the year is always advantageous. If you feel unprepared or uneasy, don’t stress! There will be numerous ice-breaker opportunities and events designed to facilitate connections with others. I also realized that authenticity is vital. With an array of diverse individuals in the program and university, you’re sure to encounter those who resonate with you.
Another obstacle was the intensity of the workload and the complexity of content. There was indeed a significant escalation from A-levels, and in certain respects, an even greater jump from the first to the second term. Being propelled into such an atmosphere can be challenging for your confidence; it’s easy to observe others studying and feel inferior. Several factors aided me in overcoming that sensation, one being the reminder that everyone is navigating the same challenges. If something is unclear to you, I can almost assure you that others are struggling too. Therefore, seek assistance. This could be the most essential lesson to grasp in the first year. Don’t hesitate to ask for guidance from your peers and the faculty!
This leads me to my subsequent point. The staff in Materials are phenomenal. They genuinely desire for you to thrive and comprehend the difficulties faced by students. They empathize with our situations and maintain ongoing communication throughout the year regarding our issues. I didn’t fully leverage the pastoral support until the end of the year, but I wish I had done so earlier. I mentioned taking risks earlier – I did take a leap at the start of the year by becoming a year well-being representative. This role enabled me to familiarize myself with the staff, which is immensely beneficial. There are numerous opportunities to connect with faculty, and it’s one of the best choices you can make for yourself! My principal takeaway from this aspect of university is to make the most of the support provided. You can never have too much!
In summary, this year has taught me that anxious feelings, both before and during university, are frequently unfounded and can be eased with the various support systems available from faculty and fellow students. It has shown me that I’m never on my own and how to enjoy my experience despite pressures like exams and deadlines.