Written by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, doubt, and fear regarding what lay ahead. I was just about to embark on my first year in studying Materials Science and Engineering at Imperial College London. Being someone who has always been introverted and reserved, jumping straight into university life felt completely out of my comfort zone. However, reflecting on this past year, I recognize it as a time filled with personal development, challenges, and memorable experiences. So, what insights have I gained, 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 distinctly recall my first day checking into student housing—I spent the whole day in my room, too nervous to venture out and introduce myself. But fast forward to now, I can proudly state that I’ve formed some of the closest friendships I’ve ever known. I’ve discovered a second family here, both within my course and throughout the university. All it required was initiating a few conversations with others who were just as apprehensive as I was. The lesson I’ve learned is this: take that initial step early on. Even if you don’t feel prepared, numerous opportunities—ice-breakers, events, and casual chats—will present themselves to help you connect with peers. Above all, be true to yourself. With such a varied student population, you’re sure to find people who align with your interests and principles.
Another significant adjustment was managing the academic workload and the complexity of the course material. The transition from A-levels to university was considerable, and the shift from the first term to the second felt even larger. It can be easy to feel helpless or question your capabilities when you see others around you appearing to flourish. But here’s what assisted me: keeping in mind that everyone is experiencing similar challenges. If you’re having difficulty grasping a concept, it’s likely that others are too. Don’t hesitate to seek help—this is probably the most crucial skill you can cultivate in your first year. Connect with your fellow students, and don’t shy away from approaching teaching staff as well.
On the topic of staff, I cannot express enough how commendable the support within the Materials department is. The lecturers and tutors sincerely care about our success and welfare. They recognize the difficulties we encounter and maintain open communication throughout the year. I did not utilize the pastoral support system until later in the year, and I wish I had taken advantage of it earlier. One of my best decisions was becoming a year well-being representative. This role allowed me to forge connections with staff members, which ultimately proved to be very beneficial. There are numerous avenues to engage with your lecturers and tutors, and doing so can significantly enrich your university experience. My key takeaway here? Make the most of the support available to you—you can never have too much assistance.
In conclusion, this year has shown me that the anxiety I experienced prior to and during university was often unwarranted. With the right support—from both faculty and fellow students—those feelings can be managed and surmounted. I’ve discovered that I am never truly alone, and that it’s possible to relish university life even amidst the pressures of exams and deadlines.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London