{"id":299058,"date":"2025-12-15T07:40:43","date_gmt":"2025-12-15T07:40:43","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/youjustlive.com\/?p=299058"},"modified":"2025-12-15T07:40:43","modified_gmt":"2025-12-15T07:40:43","slug":"dos-and-donts-of-year-one-insights-gained-as-a-materials-science-student","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/youjustlive.com\/?p=299058","title":{"rendered":"Do’s and Don’ts of Year One: Insights Gained as a Materials Science Student"},"content":{"rendered":"

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

Ten months ago, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, apprehension, and uncertainty regarding what lay ahead. I was on the brink of starting my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a first-year student. Venturing into the unfamiliar wasn\u2019t something my once-timid and reserved self was used to. Looking back now, I recognize a year filled with personal development, obstacles, and a great deal of enjoyment! But what insights have I gained this year and what is my current standing?<\/p>\n

One of the first and most intimidating challenges was forming friendships. This is unquestionably one of the most daunting facets of commencing university, and if you\u2019re a prospective student, it might be among your greatest worries. On my initial day of moving into my residence, a few days prior to the term commencing, I spent the whole day secluding myself in my room, too daunted to step out and meet others. However, today I can proudly state that I\u2019ve made some of the finest friends I\u2019ve ever had, here at this institution and in this program. I\u2019ve created a second family at Imperial, which all began with casual conversations with individuals in similar circumstances. So, what have I discovered? I realized that taking a plunge at the beginning of the year is always the best approach. If you don\u2019t feel prepared or at ease, don\u2019t fret! There will be many ice-breaking chances and events to facilitate connections with others. I also discovered that if you can be anything, be genuine. With such a diverse array of people throughout the program and the university, you\u2019re sure to find individuals who resonate with you.<\/p>\n

An additional challenge was the volume of work and the complexity of content. There was certainly a transition from A-levels, and in some respects, an even larger leap from the first term to the second. Being placed in such a setting is not always beneficial for your self-esteem; you might observe others studying and feel inferior. A few factors supported me through that sensation, one being the reminder that everyone shares the same experience. If you don\u2019t comprehend something, I can nearly assure you that others are equally confused. Therefore, seek assistance. This might be the most crucial lesson to grasp in your first year. Reach out for help from your classmates and the faculty!<\/p>\n

This leads to my next point. The faculty in Materials is exceptional. They aspire for you to succeed and recognize that students face challenges. They relate to students and keep in regular contact with us throughout the year concerning our concerns. I didn\u2019t really utilize the pastoral support until later in the year, but I wish I had done so earlier. As I mentioned earlier about taking leaps \u2013 I took one at the year\u2019s start by becoming a year well-being representative. This role enabled me to connect with the faculty members, which is incredibly beneficial. There are numerous avenues to get to know the staff, and it\u2019s undoubtedly one of the best actions you can take for yourself! My primary takeaway from this aspect of university is to make the most of the assistance extended to you. You can never receive too much!<\/p>\n

All in all, this year has enlightened me that feelings of nervousness, both prior to and during university, are often unfounded and can be mitigated with the available support from faculty and fellow students. It has shown me that I\u2019m never truly alone and how to take pleasure in my experiences alongside the pressures of exams and deadlines.<\/p>\n