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. I was on the verge of starting my first year in Materials Science and Engineering at Imperial College London, and the idea of jumping into such a major transition was intimidating—especially for someone like me, who has always been quiet and introverted. Now, reflecting on my first academic year, I’ve experienced a journey filled with personal development, obstacles, and remarkable memories. So, what insights have I gained, and where do I stand now?
One of the most significant and intimidating challenges I encountered early on was forming friendships. If you’re an incoming student, this might be a concern for you as well. I recall my initial day in student housing—I spent the whole day in my room, too anxious to venture out and introduce myself. However, fast forward to today, and I can genuinely say I’ve forged some of the most meaningful friendships of my life here. These connections have become akin to a second family for me. What changed? Taking that initial step—engaging in small conversations with others who were equally new and apprehensive as I was. I discovered that being true to yourself is paramount. With such a diverse student population, you’re sure to find individuals who resonate with your interests and principles. And if you’re not ready right off the bat, that’s perfectly fine! Numerous ice-breakers and events are designed to facilitate connections with others.
Another significant hurdle was adapting to the academic demands. The transition from A-levels to university-level material was considerable, and the jump from the first to the second term felt even more pronounced. It’s easy to feel daunted or to compare yourself to peers who appear to be managing better. However, one of the key lessons I learned was that everyone is navigating similar challenges. If you’re finding something difficult to grasp, it’s likely that others are too. Don’t hesitate to seek assistance—whether it’s from fellow students or professors. Learning to reach out and ask questions is one of the most crucial skills you can cultivate in your first year.
This leads me to the outstanding support network within the Department of Materials. The faculty members are sincerely dedicated to our success and well-being. They comprehend the challenges students encounter and maintain open lines of communication throughout the academic year. Although I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support until later, I wish I’d taken advantage of it earlier. One proactive step I did take at the outset was becoming a year well-being representative. This role allowed me to cultivate relationships with staff members, which turned out to be incredibly advantageous. There are numerous ways to become acquainted with your lecturers and tutors, and doing so can significantly enhance your university experience. My recommendation? Take full advantage of the support that’s accessible to you—you can never have too much assistance.
In summary, this year has shown me that the apprehension I felt before embarking on my university journey—and even during it—was natural, but frequently unfounded. With the backing of fellow students and staff, those feelings became manageable. I’ve realized that I’m never truly alone, and I’ve learned to balance academic demands with the enjoyment of university life.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London