Written by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, uncertainty, and a significant amount of fear. I was about to embark on my first year of studying Materials Science and Engineering at Imperial College London. As someone who has always been rather shy and reserved, plunging into university life felt intimidating. However, reflecting back now, I see a year filled with personal development, challenges, and unforgettable moments. So, what insights have I gained, and what is my current state?
One of the most formidable and daunting hurdles I encountered early on was forming friendships. If you’re a prospective student, this may be a concern for you as well. I vividly remember my first day moving into my student accommodation—I spent the entire day in my room, too anxious to venture out and introduce myself. Fast forward to today, and I have made some of the dearest friends I’ve ever known. I’ve discovered a second family here at Imperial, which began with a few simple talks with others who were just as new and apprehensive as I was. What I’ve discovered is that taking that initial step is always worthwhile. Even if you feel unprepared, numerous ice-breakers and social activities are available to help you connect with others. Most importantly, be true to yourself. With such a varied student demographic, you are sure to find individuals who resonate with your interests and values.
Another significant adjustment was the academic demands and the complexity of the course material. There was certainly a clear escalation from A-levels, and the shift from the first to the second term was even more pronounced. It’s easy to become overwhelmed or question your capabilities when you observe others studying diligently or swiftly understanding concepts. However, one of the most crucial lessons I gleaned is that you are not alone—everyone is facing the same hurdles. If you’re having difficulty with something, it’s likely others are, too. Don’t hesitate to seek assistance. Whether it’s from your classmates or your lecturers, reaching out for help is one of the most essential habits to cultivate in your first year.
Speaking of assistance, I can’t express enough how positive my experience has been with the staff in the Materials department. They genuinely prioritize our success and well-being, always willing to listen to our concerns. Although I didn’t take full advantage of the pastoral support services until later in the year, I wish I had utilized them earlier. Early in the year, I decided to become a year well-being representative, which allowed me to establish connections with staff members. This experience turned out to be immensely beneficial. There are numerous opportunities to engage with your lecturers and tutors, and doing so can significantly enrich your university experience. My suggestion? Take full advantage of the resources available to you—you can never have too much support.
In summary, this year has shown me that the worries I experienced before and at the start of university were mostly unfounded. With the appropriate support from both staff and fellow students, those fears quickly dissipated. I’ve come to understand that I am never truly alone and that it’s possible to relish university life, even while managing exams and deadlines.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London