Written by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with nerves, uncertainty, and a considerable amount of fear. I was on the verge of starting my first year in Materials Science and Engineering at Imperial College London, and the idea of immersing myself in such a new and unfamiliar setting was intimidating—particularly for someone like me, who has always been rather shy and introverted. Now, reflecting on my first academic year, I view it as a journey full of development, challenges, and unforgettable moments. So, what insights did I gain, and what is my current situation?
One of the largest and most daunting obstacles I encountered early on was making new friends. If you are a prospective student reading this, you might be experiencing similar feelings of anxiety. I recall my initial day in student housing, just before the term started—I spent the whole day in my room, too anxious to venture out and introduce myself. However, fast-forward to today, and I can proudly say that I’ve formed some of the closest friendships I’ve ever known. I’ve discovered a second family here at Imperial, simply by taking small steps—initiating conversations with individuals who were equally new and apprehensive as I was. My main takeaway? Don’t hesitate to take that first step. Even if you feel unprepared, there are plenty of ice-breakers and social events designed to help you connect. And most importantly, stay true to yourself. With such a diverse student population, you’re sure to find people you resonate with.
Another significant challenge was adapting to the academic demands and the intricacy of the subject matter. There was undeniably a distinct increase from A-levels, and the shift from the first to the second term introduced even more hurdles. It’s easy to feel daunted or to compare yourself to others who seem to handle it better. But what supported me through this was the realization that everyone is navigating similar waters. If you’re struggling to grasp a concept, it’s likely that others are too. So, don’t hesitate to seek help. This might be the most important lesson I learned during my first year—don’t be shy to reach out to your classmates or the teaching staff.
Regarding staff, the backing from the Materials department has been outstanding. The lecturers and tutors genuinely prioritize our success and well-being. They recognize the pressures students encounter and are always receptive to feedback and communication. I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support available until later in the year, and I regret not taking advantage of it sooner. One initiative I did undertake early on was becoming a Year Wellbeing Representative. This position allowed me to collaborate closely with staff and become better acquainted with them—something I found immensely beneficial. There are numerous ways to forge these connections, and doing so can significantly enhance your university experience. My recommendation? Take full advantage of the support mechanisms at your disposal. You can never receive too much assistance.
In summary, this year has shown me that the anxiety I felt at the beginning—although completely normal—was often unjustified. With the backing of friends, staff, and the broader university community, I’ve realized that I’m never truly alone. I’ve also learned how to balance the demands of academic life with moments of joy and enjoyment. It’s been a year of profound growth, and I’m eager for what lies ahead.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London