{"id":295021,"date":"2025-12-09T23:10:42","date_gmt":"2025-12-09T23:10:42","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/youjustlive.com\/?p=295021"},"modified":"2025-12-09T23:10:42","modified_gmt":"2025-12-09T23:10:42","slug":"dos-and-donts-for-the-initial-year-insights-gained-as-a-materials-science-scholar-86","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/youjustlive.com\/?p=295021","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

Nearly a year ago, in October 2022, I felt anxious and uncertain about the future as I embarked on my journey in Materials Science and Engineering as a newcomer. Embracing the unfamiliar was not something my previously reserved nature was used to. Looking back now, I recognize a year brimming with personal development, obstacles, and fun. What insights have I gained, and what is my current position?<\/p>\n

One of the early and most intimidating hurdles was establishing friendships. This is frequently a major worry for freshmen in university. On my first day moving into my new place, I spent the whole day enclosed in my room, feeling too shy to go out and socialize. Now, I can proudly claim that I\u2019ve formed some of the best friendships at this university and within my program. I discovered a second family at Imperial by simply engaging in casual conversations with others in comparable situations. I recognized that taking the initiative at the beginning of the year can be advantageous. If you\u2019re feeling unprepared, don\u2019t stress\u2014there are numerous ice-breaker activities to facilitate connections with others. Just be yourself, and you\u2019ll meet like-minded individuals.<\/p>\n

Another obstacle was the volume of work and complexity of the material. There was a significant increase in difficulty from A-levels and an even more noticeable jump from the first term to the second. It\u2019s easy to feel inferior when observing others studying, but keep in mind that everyone is facing similar challenges. If something doesn\u2019t make sense to you, it\u2019s likely others are in the same situation. Therefore, don\u2019t hesitate to ask for assistance. This is vital to grasp in your first year. Reach out for support from classmates and faculty!<\/p>\n

The faculty in Materials are exceptional. They genuinely want you to thrive and understand the difficulties students encounter. They maintain regular communication with us regarding our concerns. I didn\u2019t take advantage of the pastoral support until the end of the year, but I wish I had utilized it earlier. I took a bold step by becoming a well-being rep for my year, which enabled me to engage with faculty members\u2014a valuable experience. There are numerous ways to connect with staff, and it\u2019s one of the best choices you can make for yourself. Utilize the help available; you can never have too much!<\/p>\n

This year has enlightened me that feelings of anxiety regarding university are often misplaced and can be eased through the support provided by staff and fellow students. It has shown me that I\u2019m never truly alone and how to find joy amid pressures such as exams and deadlines.<\/p>\n