Written by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months prior, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, uncertainty, and a significant degree of fear. I was on the verge of starting my first year in Materials Science and Engineering at Imperial College London. As a person who had always been somewhat shy and introverted, jumping into university life felt like a monumental task. However, reflecting on the year now, I recognize it as a time filled with personal development, challenges, and unforgettable moments. So, what insights have I gained—and what is my current situation?
One of the most daunting challenges I encountered early on was the process of making friends. If you are an incoming student, this might be one of your main concerns as well. I recall my first day in student housing, just before the term commenced—I spent the entire day in my room, too apprehensive to go out and introduce myself. Fast forward to the present, and I can proudly say that I’ve formed some of the most meaningful friendships I’ve ever had. These relationships have become akin to a second family for me. What made the difference? It all began with small exchanges with others who were just as new and hesitant as I was.
What’s the crucial lesson here? Don’t hesitate to take that initial leap. Even if you don’t feel prepared, there will be numerous opportunities—ice-breakers, social gatherings, and shared experiences—that can facilitate connections with others. And most importantly, stay true to yourself. With such a varied student population, you’re sure to discover individuals who share your interests and beliefs.
Another significant adjustment was adapting to the academic workload and the complexity of the course material. There was certainly a noticeable increase in difficulty from A-levels, and an even sharper rise between the first and second terms. It’s all too easy to feel overwhelmed or to compare yourself to others who appear to be managing everything effortlessly. But here’s what aided me: keeping in mind that everyone is experiencing similar challenges. If you’re having trouble grasping a concept, chances are, others are as well. Don’t hesitate to seek assistance—whether from your peers or the faculty. Learning to reach out and inquire is one of the most beneficial skills you can cultivate in your first year.
Speaking of faculty, the support from the Materials department has been outstanding. The lecturers and tutors genuinely prioritize our success and well-being. They recognize the hurdles we encounter and maintain open communication throughout the year. I didn’t fully utilize the available pastoral support until later in the year, and I now wish I had done so earlier.
At the beginning of the year, I took a bold step and became a well-being representative for my cohort. This position allowed me to connect more closely with the staff, which proved to be a significant advantage. There are numerous ways to forge relationships with faculty, and doing so can greatly enrich your university experience. My most significant insight? Leverage the support systems available to you—there’s no such thing as too much help.
In conclusion, this year has shown me that the anxieties and uncertainties I experienced—both prior to and during university—were entirely natural, though often unwarranted. With the backing of peers and faculty, those emotions became easier to handle. I’ve discovered that I’m never genuinely alone, and that enjoying university life is indeed feasible, even amid the stresses of exams and deadlines.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London