{"id":288870,"date":"2025-12-02T02:10:48","date_gmt":"2025-12-02T02:10:48","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/youjustlive.com\/?p=288870"},"modified":"2025-12-02T02:10:48","modified_gmt":"2025-12-02T02:10:48","slug":"dos-and-donts-for-the-initial-year-insights-gained-as-a-materials-science-scholar-29","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/youjustlive.com\/?p=288870","title":{"rendered":"Do’s and Don’ts for the Initial Year: Insights Gained as a Materials Science Scholar"},"content":{"rendered":"

Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)<\/em><\/p>\n

Back in October 2022, I found myself overwhelmed with anxiety, apprehension, and uncertainty regarding what lay ahead. I was on the verge of beginning my journey in Materials Science and Engineering as a fresh student. Plunging into uncharted territory was unfamiliar territory for my previously timid and reserved self. Now, upon reflection, I recognize a year filled with personal development, obstacles, and a great deal of enjoyment! But what insights has this year provided, and where do I currently stand?<\/p>\n

One of the earliest and most daunting obstacles I encountered was forming friendships. This is undoubtedly one of the more nerve-wracking aspects of commencing university, and if you\u2019re an incoming student reading this, it might rank among your primary worries. On my initial day of moving into my accommodation, just days before the semester commenced, I spent the entire day secluded in my room, too apprehensive to venture out and meet others. However, today, I can proudly state that I\u2019ve formed some of the finest friendships I\u2019ve ever had, right here at this university and in this course. I\u2019ve discovered a second family at Imperial, and it all initiated with light conversation with individuals in similar positions. So, what did I discover? I discovered that it\u2019s always best to take a chance at the beginning of the year. If you don\u2019t quite feel prepared or at ease, don\u2019t fret! There will be numerous ice-breaker chances and events designed to help you engage with others. I also learned that if you can embody one thing, be yourself. With such a diverse range of individuals across the course and university, you\u2019re sure to encounter people like you.<\/p>\n

Another challenge was the volume of work and the difficulty of the material. There was definitely an elevation from A-levels, and in some aspects, an even larger leap from the first term to the second. Being thrust into such an environment isn\u2019t always conducive to your confidence; you may observe others studying and feel inferior. A few elements helped me navigate that sensation, one being the reminder that everyone is experiencing similar struggles. If you don\u2019t grasp something, I can nearly assure you that there are at least a handful of others who also don\u2019t comprehend it. Therefore, seek assistance. This may be the most crucial lesson to internalize in your first year. Seek help from your classmates and the faculty!<\/p>\n

This leads me to my subsequent point. The faculty in Materials are exceptional. They genuinely want you to succeed and understand that students face difficulties. They empathize with us and maintain ongoing communication throughout the year regarding our challenges. I didn\u2019t make full use of the support services until later in the year, but I wish I had done so earlier. I mentioned at the beginning about taking leaps \u2013 I did take one at the start of the year by stepping up as a year well-being representative. This role allowed me to connect with staff members, which is immensely valuable. There are numerous ways to bond with faculty, and it\u2019s undoubtedly one of the best actions you can take for your personal growth! My key takeaway from this aspect of university is to capitalize on the assistance being provided to you. You can never have an excess of support!<\/p>\n

In general, this year has taught me that feelings of nervousness, both prior to and during university, are mostly unwarranted and can be mitigated through the extensive support options available from faculty and fellow students. It has taught me that I\u2019m never isolated, and it has shown me how to relish my time while managing sources of stress like exams and deadlines.<\/p>\n