{"id":308856,"date":"2026-01-04T19:38:29","date_gmt":"2026-01-04T19:38:29","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/youjustlive.com\/?p=308856"},"modified":"2026-01-04T19:38:29","modified_gmt":"2026-01-04T19:38:29","slug":"dos-and-donts-for-the-initial-year-insights-gained-as-a-materials-science-scholar-166","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/youjustlive.com\/?p=308856","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

Ten months back, in October 2022, I felt anxious, fearful, and uncertain about what lay ahead. I was on the brink of starting my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Venturing into the unknown wasn’t something my formerly shy and reserved self was used to. In retrospect, I realize it has been a year filled with personal development, hurdles, and a lot of enjoyment! But what insights have I gained this year, and where do I stand now?<\/p>\n

One of the first and most intimidating hurdles was forming friendships. This is undoubtedly one of the most daunting parts of commencing university, and if you are reading this as a potential student, it might rank as one of your primary worries. On my initial day of moving into my accommodation, just a few days prior to the term starting, I spent the entire day secluded in my room because I was too daunted to step out and introduce myself to others. However, sitting here today, I can proudly say that I\u2019ve forged some of the finest friendships I\u2019ve ever had at this university and within this course. I\u2019ve discovered a second family here at Imperial, and all it required was a bit of small talk with others in similar situations. So, what did I take away from this? I discovered that it\u2019s always beneficial to take a plunge at the beginning of the year. If you don\u2019t feel entirely prepared or at ease, relax! There will be numerous ice-breaker occasions and events to facilitate connections with others. I also learned that if there\u2019s one thing you should be, it\u2019s yourself. With such a diverse array of people throughout the course and university, you are sure to find others akin to you.<\/p>\n

Another hurdle was the workload and the complexity of the content. There was definitely a noticeable shift from A-levels, and in some respects, an even larger leap from the first term to the second. Being thrust into such an atmosphere isn\u2019t always great for your confidence; you might observe others studying and feel inadequate. A few strategies aided me in overcoming that feeling, one being the recognition that everyone faces the same challenges. If you don\u2019t grasp something, I can nearly assure you that several others are also in the same boat. Therefore, seek assistance. This may be the most crucial skill to adopt in your first year. Don\u2019t hesitate to ask for help from your peers and the faculty!<\/p>\n

This leads me to my next observation. The faculty in Materials are fantastic. They genuinely want you to succeed and recognize that students face difficulties. They relate to students and maintain consistent communication with us throughout the year regarding our concerns. I didn\u2019t really take advantage of the pastoral support until the year\u2019s end, but I wish I had engaged with it earlier. I spoke about taking leaps at the start; I took one by becoming a well-being representative for my year. This role allowed me to connect with the staff members, which is incredibly beneficial. There are numerous avenues to interact with faculty, and it\u2019s absolutely one of the best things you can do for yourself! My central takeaway from this dimension of university life is to utilize the assistance provided to you. You can never have too much support!<\/p>\n

Overall, this year has imparted to me that feelings of nervousness, both before and during university, are almost always irrational and can be eased by the array of support options provided by staff and fellow students. It has taught me that I\u2019m never alone, and it has shown me how to enjoy myself alongside stressors like exams and deadlines.<\/p>\n