{"id":310756,"date":"2026-01-07T09:12:51","date_gmt":"2026-01-07T09:12:51","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/youjustlive.com\/?p=310756"},"modified":"2026-01-07T09:12:51","modified_gmt":"2026-01-07T09:12:51","slug":"dos-and-donts-for-the-initial-year-insights-gained-as-a-materials-science-scholar-181","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/youjustlive.com\/?p=310756","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 found myself anxious, frightened, and uncertain about what lay ahead. I was about to embark on my journey in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Venturing into the unknown wasn\u2019t something my previously introverted and reserved self was familiar with. Looking back now, I realize it has been a year filled with personal development, hurdles, and plenty of enjoyment! But what have I discovered, and what\u2019s my current situation?<\/p>\n

One of the initial and most daunting obstacles I faced was forming friendships. This is undoubtedly one of the more intimidating elements of starting university, and if you’re an incoming student, it might be among your greatest worries. On my first day of moving into my accommodation, just days before classes commenced, I spent the entire day concealed in my room, too apprehensive to step out and introduce myself to others. Today, however, I can wholeheartedly say that I\u2019ve forged some of the best friendships I\u2019ve ever experienced, here at this university and within this program. I\u2019ve discovered a second family at Imperial, and it all initiated with casual conversations with individuals in similar circumstances. So, what did I gain from this? I learned that it\u2019s always best to take a leap at the beginning of the year. If you don\u2019t feel entirely ready or at ease, don\u2019t stress! There will be numerous ice-breaker events and opportunities to help you engage with others. I also realized that if you choose to be anything, be yourself. With such a diverse range of people throughout the program and university, you\u2019re likely to connect with those who share your interests.<\/p>\n

Another challenge I encountered was the workload and complexity of the material. It was certainly a shift from A-levels, and in some respects, an even more significant adjustment from the first term to the second. Being thrust into such an environment isn\u2019t always easy on your confidence; you may observe others studying and feel less capable. A few strategies helped me navigate that feeling, one being the assurance that everyone is experiencing similar challenges. If you find something difficult to grasp, I can almost assure you there are others who share that struggle. So, seek assistance. This might be the most crucial lesson to acquire in your first year. Don\u2019t hesitate to ask for help from your classmates and the faculty!<\/p>\n

This leads me to my next point. The faculty in Materials are fantastic. They are invested in your success and recognize that students face challenges. They relate to us and maintain ongoing communication throughout the year concerning our difficulties. I didn\u2019t really utilize the pastoral support until later in the year, but I wish I had taken advantage of it sooner. I alluded to taking leaps previously \u2013 I did make one at the year\u2019s start by becoming a year well-being representative. This role enabled me to become acquainted with the faculty members, which is incredibly beneficial. There are numerous ways to engage with faculty, and it\u2019s certainly one of the most advantageous things you can do for yourself! My primary takeaway from this facet of university is to leverage the support available to you. You can never have too much!<\/p>\n

Overall, this year has imparted to me that anxious feelings, both before and during university, are frequently baseless and can be mitigated with the various support resources offered by staff and fellow students. It has taught me that I\u2019m never isolated, and it has shown me how to find joy in addition to managing stressors like exams and deadlines.<\/p>\n