Written by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, doubt, and a hint of fear as I geared up to start my degree in Materials Science and Engineering at Imperial College London. As a freshman, venturing into the unfamiliar was daunting—especially for someone like me, who had always leaned towards being more introverted. Reflecting on this past year, I realize it has been a journey of personal development, obstacles, and remarkable moments. So, what insights have I gained, and what is my current situation?
One of the most significant obstacles I encountered early in my journey was making friends. This is a concern many newcomers have, and I certainly fell in that category. The day I arrived at my accommodation—just days before the semester kicked off—I ended up spending the whole day in my room, too anxious to venture out and introduce myself. Fast forward to today, and I can truly say I’ve formed some of the best friendships of my life. Through our shared experiences and casual chats, I’ve discovered a second family here at Imperial. The key takeaway is that taking that first step—no matter how minor—can lead to meaningful relationships. And if you’re not ready right away, that’s perfectly fine. There are countless ice-breakers and social activities tailored to help you connect with others. Above all, be authentic. With such a varied student body, you’re sure to encounter individuals who resonate with your interests and principles.
On the academic front, the shift from A-levels to university-level courses was another significant challenge. The volume of work escalated dramatically, and the leap from the first to the second term was even more pronounced. It’s easy to feel inundated, especially when it appears that everyone else has it all figured out. But here’s the reality: everyone is finding their way, and you’re not alone in this. If you’re having difficulty grasping a concept, it’s likely that others are too. Don’t hesitate to seek assistance—whether it’s from fellow students or staff. Learning to seek help is among the most essential skills you can cultivate in your first year.
Speaking of faculty, I cannot emphasize enough the positive aspects of the Materials department. The lecturers and support personnel genuinely prioritize students’ well-being and success. They recognize the difficulties we encounter and are always receptive to feedback and conversation. I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support available to me until later in the year, and I wish I had engaged with it earlier. One of the best choices I made was to become a well-being representative for my year. This role allowed me to establish connections with staff, which turned out to be tremendously beneficial. There are numerous avenues to connect with faculty, and doing so can significantly enrich your university experience. My suggestion? Make the most of every support system at your disposal—you can never have too much assistance.
Ultimately, this year has shown me that those initial jitters are entirely normal—and frequently unwarranted. With the appropriate support and mentality, you can surpass them. I’ve realized that I’m never genuinely alone, and that enjoying university life is entirely feasible, even amid the demands of exams and deadlines.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London