Written by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Approximately ten months ago, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with nerves, apprehension, and uncertainty regarding what the future held. I was on the verge of commencing my first year in Materials Science and Engineering at Imperial College London. With my naturally shy and reserved disposition, jumping into an entirely new setting felt quite intimidating. Now that I reflect on this past academic year, I recognize a path filled with personal development, challenges, and a multitude of unforgettable moments. So, what insights have I gained, and where do I stand now?
One of the most significant and daunting hurdles I encountered initially was forming friendships. If you’re a potential student perusing this, you might be experiencing similar feelings of anxiety. I distinctly recall my first day settling into student accommodation—I was so inundated that I spent the whole day confined in my room, too anxious to venture out and introduce myself. Fast forward to the present, and I can proudly say that I’ve forged some of the closest friendships I’ve ever had. These relationships have truly become like a second family to me. What was beneficial? Simply engaging in small conversations with others who were just as new and apprehensive as I was. The essential takeaway? Make that leap early. Even if you feel unprepared, there are numerous ice-breakers and social gatherings designed to help you connect with others. Most importantly, be yourself. With such a varied student community, you’re sure to find individuals you resonate with.
Another significant transition was adapting to the academic demands and the complexity of the course material. The shift from A-levels to university was substantial, and the progression from the first term to the second felt even more challenging. It’s easy to feel as though you’re lagging behind when witnessing others study with confidence. Yet, one of the most valuable insights I’ve gained is that everyone shares similar struggles. If you’re finding it hard to grasp a concept, it’s likely that others are experiencing the same difficulty. Don’t shy away from seeking assistance—whether from peers or lecturers. Learning to ask for help is arguably one of the most crucial skills you can cultivate in your initial year.
This leads me to another highlight of my experience: the remarkable support from the department staff. The Materials Science team genuinely cares about students’ success. They recognize the obstacles we encounter and keep lines of communication open throughout the year. Although I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support until later on, I wish I had reached out sooner. One of the best choices I made was becoming a well-being representative for my year group. This position allowed me to foster connections with staff members, which turned out to be immensely beneficial. There are plenty of opportunities to get to know your lecturers and tutors, and doing so can significantly enrich your university experience. My suggestion? Take full advantage of the support that’s available to you—you can never have too much.
In summary, this year has illustrated for me that the anxiety I felt before and during my university journey was often unwarranted. With the variety of support systems in place—from staff to fellow students—there is always someone ready to help. I’ve learned that I’m never truly alone, and I’ve figured out how to balance academic pressures with enjoyment and self-care.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London