Written by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, uncertainty, and a considerable degree of fear. I was on the brink of starting my first year in Materials Science and Engineering at Imperial College London, and the idea of immersing myself into university life was daunting—particularly for someone like me, who has always leaned towards being quieter and more reserved. Now, reflecting on the past academic year, I recognize a journey rich in personal development, obstacles, and memorable experiences. So, what insights have I gained, and what is my current status?
One of the most significant and daunting hurdles I encountered early on was forging friendships. If you’re an incoming student, this might be something that concerns you as well. I still remember my initial day in student housing, just days before the term officially commenced—I spent the entire day in my room, too anxious to venture out and introduce myself. But fast forward to today, and I can proudly say I’ve formed some of the best friendships of my life. I’ve discovered a second family here at Imperial, and it began with a handful of simple conversations with individuals who were just as new and uncertain as I was.
The crucial lesson? Take that initial leap. Even if it feels awkward at the start, there are numerous ice-breakers and activities designed to facilitate connections. And above all, remain true to yourself. With such a diverse group of students, you’re sure to encounter individuals who resonate with your interests and values.
Another significant transition was adapting to the academic workload and the complexity of the course material. The shift from A-levels to university was apparent—and the transition from the first to the second term was even more pronounced. It’s easy to feel like you’re lagging behind when you observe others studying diligently, and self-doubt can infiltrate your thoughts. However, one thing that aided me was the realization that everyone shares this experience. If you’re finding it tough to grasp a concept, chances are others are as well. So don’t hesitate to seek help—whether from your classmates or your professors. Learning to request assistance is arguably the most vital skill I embraced during my first year.
This brings me to another standout aspect of my journey: the remarkable support from the Materials department staff. They are genuinely invested in students’ success and are always receptive to feedback and dialogue. I didn’t fully take advantage of the pastoral support available until later in the year, but I wish I had done so earlier. Initially, I took a bold step and became a year well-being representative. This position allowed me to cultivate relationships with staff members, which proved to be incredibly beneficial. There are numerous avenues to connect with staff, and doing so can significantly enrich your university experience. My suggestion? Make the most of every ounce of support available—you can never have enough.
In summary, this year has revealed to me that the anxiety and apprehension I experienced before embarking on university were entirely normal—and frequently unnecessary. With the extensive support network offered by both staff and fellow students, I’ve realized that I’m never truly alone. Most importantly, I’ve learned how to embrace university life, even amid the stresses of exams and deadlines.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London