Written by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I was filled 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 as someone who has always leaned towards being more reserved, plunging into such a significant change felt daunting. Now, reflecting on the past year, I see a journey rich with personal development, hurdles, and unforgettable moments. So, what insights have I gained, and where do I stand now?
One of the most significant and daunting challenges I encountered at the outset was forging friendships. If you’re an incoming student, this might be a concern for you as well. I recall spending my initial whole day in student accommodation confined to my room, too apprehensive to introduce myself to anyone. Fast forward to the present, and I can proudly say I’ve formed some of the closest friendships I’ve ever experienced—friends who feel like a second family. What shifted? I took a chance and initiated brief conversations with people who were just as new and uncertain as I was. My main takeaway? Don’t shy away from taking that initial step. Even if it feels awkward initially, there are numerous ice-breaker events and chances to meet others. Most importantly, be yourself. With such a diverse student population, you’re sure to connect with people who share your interests and values.
Another significant change was the academic workload. The transition from A-levels was considerable, and the jump from the first term to the second was even more pronounced. It’s easy to feel inundated or to measure yourself against others who appear to have everything in order. But here’s what aided me: remembering that everyone is navigating similar challenges. If you’re having difficulty grasping a concept, it’s likely that others are as well. Don’t hesitate to seek assistance—whether it’s from classmates or lecturers. Learning to solicit support is one of the most crucial skills you can cultivate in your first year.
In terms of support, I can’t praise the staff in the Materials department enough. They truly care about the well-being and success of students. Throughout the year, they maintained open lines of communication and were always ready to listen to our concerns. I didn’t fully utilize the available pastoral support until later in the year, and I wish I had done so earlier. One initiative I took early on was becoming a year well-being representative. This role provided me with the opportunity to build relationships with staff members, which proved to be immensely beneficial. There are numerous ways to engage with staff, and doing so can significantly enhance your university experience. My advice? Make the most of all the support available—you can never have too much.
Overall, this year has shown me that the anxious feelings I experienced before and during university were often unfounded. With the extensive support from both staff and fellow students, I’ve learned that I’m never truly alone. Most importantly, I’ve discovered how to relish the university experience—even amidst the pressures of exams and deadlines.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London