Reflections on My Initial Year in Materials Science and Engineering
Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months prior, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, uncertainty, and quite a bit of fear. I was about to embark on my first year of studying Materials Science and Engineering at Imperial College London, and the idea of immersing myself in something so novel and foreign felt intimidating—particularly for someone like me, who had always been somewhat shy and introverted. Now, as I reflect on the academic year, I recognize a journey filled with personal development, obstacles, and unforgettable moments. So, what have I discovered—and where do I stand now?
One of the most significant and daunting challenges I encountered early on was forming friendships. If you’re an incoming student, this might be one of your primary worries as well. I recall my first day moving into student housing—I spent the whole day in my room, too anxious to venture out and introduce myself. But fast forward to now, and I can genuinely say I’ve forged some of the best friendships of my life. I’ve found a second family here at Imperial, both within my program and outside of it. What made a difference? Simply initiating conversations with others who were equally new and uncertain. My key insight: take that plunge early. Even if you don’t feel prepared, there will be an abundance of ice-breakers and social gatherings to foster connections. And perhaps most importantly—be authentic. With such a varied student community, you’re sure to find others who share your passions and values.
Academically, the shift from A-levels to university presented another significant challenge. The workload increased, and the material became more challenging—particularly transitioning from the first to the second term. It’s easy to feel inundated or to compare yourself to peers who appear to be managing better. However, one realization that helped me persevere was understanding that everyone is experiencing similar struggles. If you’re having difficulty grasping a concept, there’s a good chance others are too. Don’t hesitate to seek assistance—whether from classmates or professors. Learning to ask for help is one of the most beneficial skills you can cultivate in your first year.
On the topic of support, I can’t emphasize enough the excellence of the staff in the Materials department. They genuinely prioritize students’ success and well-being, and they’re always receptive to feedback and communication. I didn’t fully take advantage of the pastoral support services until later in the year, but I regret not doing so earlier. One of my best choices was becoming a well-being representative for my year group. This position allowed me to build connections with faculty members and better comprehend the support mechanisms available. There are numerous ways to engage and establish rapport with faculty, and doing so can significantly enrich your university journey. My recommendation? Maximize the resources at your disposal—you can never have enough support.
In summary, this year has revealed to me that the fears and worries I initially had were often misplaced. With adequate support and the right mindset, university life need not be overwhelming. I’ve realized that I’m never truly alone, and that it’s feasible to savor the experience—even amidst the stresses of exams and deadlines.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London