Written by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
In October 2022, I experienced a whirlwind of nerves, uncertainty, and quite a bit of fear as I prepared to embark on my first year of studying Materials Science and Engineering at Imperial College London. Being someone who has always been rather shy and reserved, taking the plunge into university life felt quite overwhelming. Now, almost a year later, I reflect on a journey rich in growth, challenges, and amazing experiences. So, what have I taken away from this, and where do I stand now?
One of the most significant obstacles I encountered at the beginning was forming friendships. If you’re a prospective student, this might be a concern for you as well. I recall spending my initial day in student accommodation confined to my room, too anxious to venture out and introduce myself. But fast forward to today, and I’ve formed meaningful friendships that I deeply treasure—some of the finest I’ve ever had. I’ve discovered a second family here at Imperial, all starting from a few simple chats with others who were just as inexperienced and uncertain as I was. The main takeaway? Take that initial step. Even if it feels awkward, there will be countless opportunities—icebreakers, events, and shared experiences—to help you connect with others. Above all, be yourself. With such a varied student community, you’re bound to meet people who resonate with you.
Academically, the shift from A-levels to university presented another significant adjustment. The workload was more intense, and the material more intricate—particularly when moving from the first to the second term. It can be easy to feel inundated or question your capabilities when you observe others thriving. However, one thing that aided me was the realization that everyone is experiencing the same challenges. If you’re having difficulty grasping something, it’s likely that others are too. Don’t hesitate to seek assistance—whether from your classmates or your lecturers. Learning to ask for help is one of the most beneficial skills you can cultivate in your first year.
Speaking of support, the faculty in the Department of Materials has been fantastic. They genuinely care about our success and well-being, maintaining open channels of communication to ensure we feel acknowledged. I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support available until later in the year, and I wish I had done so earlier. At the outset, I took a step forward by becoming a Year Wellbeing Representative, which allowed me to collaborate closely with staff and better understand the resources at hand. Familiarizing yourself with your lecturers and support staff is one of the best actions you can take—it opens doors and makes the university experience feel more personal and supportive.
Reflecting on this year, I’ve learned that many of the anxieties I harbored—both before and during university—were unfounded. With the right support and outlook, they became manageable. I’ve realized that I’m never truly alone, and I’ve discovered how to strike a balance between hard work and enjoyment, even during stressful periods like exams and deadlines.
This first year has been an enlightening journey, and I’m looking forward to what lies ahead.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London