Written by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with nerves, uncertainty, and a significant amount of fear as I was about to kick off my degree in Materials Science and Engineering at Imperial College London. As a first-year student, the prospect of plunging into university life was intimidating—particularly for someone like me, who has always leaned towards being more reserved. Now, looking back on my first academic year, I recognize a journey characterized by personal development, obstacles, and memorable moments. So, what insights have I gained, and what is my current situation?
One of the most daunting challenges I encountered early on was forging friendships. University can be a challenging experience, and for prospective students, this might rank among your top worries. I recall spending my initial day in student housing, hiding in my room, too nervous to meet anyone. Fast forward to now, and I can proudly say I’ve formed some of the closest friendships of my life—people who feel like family. What changed? I took minor steps, like initiating conversations with fellow newcomers who were just as apprehensive as I was. My key takeaway? Don’t hesitate to make that first move. Even if you’re not entirely ready, there will be numerous social activities and ice-breakers to assist you in connecting. Most importantly, be authentic. With such a diverse student community, you’re sure to find peers who resonate with your interests and principles.
Another major obstacle was adapting to the academic demands. The transition from A-levels to university-level studies was quite evident, and moving from the first to the second term presented an even sharper learning curve. It’s natural to feel overwhelmed or question your capabilities, especially when it appears that everyone else has a handle on things. But here’s the reality: everyone is navigating similar challenges. If you’re finding something difficult to grasp, chances are others are too. Don’t hesitate to seek assistance—whether it be from classmates or professors. Cultivating the ability to ask for help is one of the most essential skills you can acquire in your first year.
On the topic of support, I must express my appreciation for the staff within the Materials department. They sincerely invest in student achievement and are always receptive to feedback and communication. Although I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support until later in the year, I wish I had started sooner. Early on, I took the plunge and became a well-being representative for my cohort. This position allowed me to develop connections with staff, which proved to be immensely beneficial. There are numerous ways to familiarize yourself with your lecturers and support personnel, and doing so can significantly enhance your university journey. My recommendation? Fully utilize the resources and support available—you can never have too much assistance.
Overall, this year has shown me that much of the anxiety I experienced before and during university was often unwarranted. With the appropriate support structures—ranging from staff to fellow students—those concerns became manageable. I’ve realized that I’m never truly alone, and that enjoying university life is indeed possible, even while juggling exams and deadlines.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London