Written by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I was anxious, unsure, and just a bit scared as I geared up to embark on my first year of studying Materials Science and Engineering at Imperial College London. As someone who has always tended to be shy and introverted, plunging into university life felt daunting. However, reflecting on my first academic year now reveals a path brimming with development, obstacles, and memorable moments. So, what insights did I gain—and where do I stand today?
One of the most significant and daunting challenges at the outset was forming friendships. If you are a prospective student, this might be a concern of yours as well. I recall moving into my accommodation a few days before classes started and spending all of the first day in my room, too anxious to venture out and introduce myself. Fast forward to now, and I can genuinely say I’ve forged some of the closest friendships of my life—individuals who feel like a second family. It simply required a few instances of casual conversation with others who were equally uncertain. The critical lesson? Take that initial step. Even if you’re not completely prepared, there will be ample chances—icebreakers, events, and shared experiences—that will facilitate connections with others. And above all, be yourself. With such a varied community at Imperial, you’re sure to find companions who resonate with your interests and principles.
On the academic front, the shift from A-levels to university presented another significant challenge. The workload ramped up considerably, and the transition from the first to the second term was even more pronounced. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed or to compare yourself to others and think you’re lagging behind. What benefitted me most was reminding myself that everyone faces similar struggles. If you are having difficulty grasping a concept, it’s likely that others are too. Don’t hesitate to seek assistance—whether it’s from your peers or your lecturers. Learning to reach out for help may be the most vital skill you cultivate in your first year.
In terms of support, the faculty within the Materials department are exceptional. They genuinely care about student success and are acutely aware of the obstacles we encounter. They keep communication channels open and are always ready to lend an ear. I didn’t fully utilize the available pastoral support until later in the year, and I wish I had taken advantage of it sooner. One bold step I made early on was to become a year well-being representative. This position allowed me to connect with the staff more effectively, which proved to be extremely valuable. There are countless opportunities to foster relationships with faculty, and doing so can significantly improve your university experience. My suggestion? Leverage the support systems available—you can never have too much assistance.
Overall, this year has shown me that the anxiety I experienced before and during university was entirely normal—and often unwarranted. With backing from staff and fellow students, I learned that I was never truly alone. I also figured out how to balance the demands of exams and deadlines with moments of happiness and enjoyment.
For anyone about to embark on their own university adventure: embrace the challenge, be receptive to new experiences, and don’t hesitate to seek help. You may just astonish yourself with how much you can achieve.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London