{"id":306621,"date":"2026-01-01T20:42:45","date_gmt":"2026-01-01T20:42:45","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/youjustlive.com\/?p=306621"},"modified":"2026-01-01T20:42:45","modified_gmt":"2026-01-01T20:42:45","slug":"dos-and-donts-for-the-initial-year-insights-gained-as-a-materials-science-scholar-146","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/youjustlive.com\/?p=306621","title":{"rendered":"Dos 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

Ten months ago, in October 2022, I was filled with anxiety, fear, and uncertainty about what lay ahead. I was about to embark on my journey in Materials Science and Engineering as a first-year student. Venturing into the unknown was quite foreign to my previously introverted and reserved nature. Reflecting on the past year, I recognize a journey filled with personal development, challenges, and a lot of enjoyment! But what have I gained from this year, and what is my current standing?<\/p>\n

One of the initial and most daunting challenges I encountered was forming friendships. This is certainly one of the more intimidating aspects of entering university, and if you\u2019re a potential student reading this, it could be one of your major worries. On my first day of moving into my new place, just days before classes began, I spent the whole day confined to my room, too apprehensive to step out and meet people. However, sitting here now, I can proudly say that I\u2019ve forged some incredible friendships here at this university and in this program. I\u2019ve established a second family at Imperial, and it all started with casual conversations with others in the same boat. So, what\u2019s the lesson I learned? I discovered that taking a bold step at the beginning of the year is invaluable. If you don\u2019t feel prepared or at ease, don\u2019t fret! There will be many opportunities for ice-breakers and events to facilitate connections with others. I also realized that if you can embody one thing, be authentic. With so many diverse individuals in the course and university, you\u2019re sure to encounter people who resonate with you.<\/p>\n

A further obstacle I needed to navigate was managing the workload and the complexity of the material. There was certainly a leap from A-levels, and in some respects, an even more significant shift from the first term to the second. Being thrust into such a situation can be challenging for your self-esteem; you might observe others studying and doubt your own capabilities. A few strategies helped me cope with this sensation, one of which was the reassurance that everyone else is experiencing similar challenges. If something is unclear to you, I can almost assure you that several others share your confusion. Therefore, don\u2019t hesitate to seek assistance. This might be the most crucial lesson to embrace in your first year. Ask for help from classmates and faculty!<\/p>\n

This leads me to my subsequent point. The faculty in the Materials department are outstanding. They genuinely desire you to succeed and understand that students face struggles. They show empathy towards students and maintain regular communication with us throughout the year regarding our concerns. I didn\u2019t fully utilize the pastoral support until the year\u2019s end, but I wish I had taken advantage of it sooner. I mentioned seizing opportunities earlier \u2013 I did take one at the year\u2019s outset by becoming a well-being representative. This role allowed me to connect with the faculty members, which is incredibly beneficial. There are numerous ways to engage with staff, and it\u2019s undoubtedly one of the most valuable things you can do for yourself! My primary takeaway from this dimension of university life is to make the most of the assistance that is available to you. You can never have too much support!<\/p>\n

In broader terms, this year has revealed to me that feelings of nervousness, both before and during university, are typically unfounded and can be eased by the plethora of support options provided by faculty and other students. It has taught me that I\u2019m never alone, and it has shown me how to balance enjoyment amidst pressures like exams and deadlines.<\/p>\n