Written by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I was consumed by anxiety, uncertainty, and quite a bit of fear. I was on the cusp of starting my first year in Materials Science and Engineering at Imperial College London. As someone who has always been quite reserved and introverted, plunging into such a significant life transition felt daunting. Yet now, reflecting on my initial academic year, I can assert that it has been a voyage of development, obstacles, and plenty of enjoyment. So, what insights have I gathered, and where do I find myself now?
One of the most significant and daunting challenges I encountered early on was forming friendships. If you’re an incoming student, this may be a concern for you as well. I recall my first day moving into accommodations—I spent the entire day in my room, too anxious to venture out and introduce myself. But fast forward to today, and I’ve formed some of the most amazing friendships I’ve ever experienced. These connections have become akin to a second family to me. What made the difference? Just starting small—striking up conversations with others in the same situation, participating in ice-breakers, and genuinely being myself. That’s one of the most crucial lessons I’ve learned: stay true to yourself. With such a varied student population, you’re sure to find individuals who resonate with your interests and core values.
Another significant change was the academic load. There was certainly a marked increase from A-levels, and the transition from the first term to the second was even more drastic. It’s easy to feel inundated or to compare yourself to peers, especially when it appears that everyone else has a clear plan. However, the reality is that everyone is navigating their own path. If you’re having difficulty grasping a concept, others likely are too. That’s why seeking help is vital—whether it’s from your fellow students or your instructors. Learning to seek assistance was one of the most essential skills I honed during my first year.
On the topic of support, I cannot praise enough the staff within the Materials department. They genuinely prioritize students’ wellbeing and success. They recognize the challenges we encounter and are consistently receptive to feedback and communication. I didn’t fully utilize the available pastoral support until later in the year, and I wish I had done so sooner. One bold step I took early in the year was becoming a year well-being representative. This position enabled me to build closer connections with staff, which proved to be immensely fulfilling. There are numerous avenues to foster relationships with faculty, and doing so can significantly enhance your university journey. My recommendation? Take full advantage of the support systems that surround you—you can never have too much assistance.
In summary, this year has illuminated that the anxiety and uncertainties I held at the outset were entirely normal—and that they can be alleviated with the appropriate support and mindset. I’ve come to realize that I’m never truly isolated, and that it’s feasible to relish university life even amidst the pressures of exams and deadlines. It’s been a transformative year, and I’m eager to discover what lies ahead.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London