Written by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, doubt, and a touch of apprehension. I was about to embark on my first year of studying Materials Science and Engineering at Imperial College London, and the idea of immersing myself in something entirely new felt daunting—especially for someone like me, who had always leaned towards being introverted. Now, reflecting on the past academic year, I recognize a journey rich with growth, hurdles, and unforgettable moments. So, what insights have I gained, and what is my current state?
One of the most significant and daunting challenges I encountered in the beginning was the task of making friends. If you’re an incoming student, this may be a concern for you as well. I recall my initial day in student housing—I spent the entire time in my room, too anxious to venture out and introduce myself. But fast forward to now, and I can proudly say I’ve formed some of the finest friendships I’ve ever had. I’ve discovered a second family here at Imperial, and it all commenced with brief exchanges with others who were just as hesitant as I was. The key takeaway? Take that initial leap. Even if you don’t feel entirely prepared, there will be numerous chances—icebreakers, events, and informal conversations—that facilitate connections. And above all, be authentic. With such a diverse student population, you’re bound to encounter individuals who resonate with your interests and values.
Another significant adjustment was managing the academic workload and the intricacy of the subjects. The transition from A-levels to university-level education was noticeable—and the leap from the first to the second term was even more pronounced. It’s easy to feel overburdened or to compare yourself to peers who appear to be coping better. But here’s what aided me: remembering that everyone is sharing this experience. If you’re having difficulty grasping a topic, it’s likely others are as well. Don’t hesitate to seek assistance—whether it’s from your peers or your instructors. Learning to request help is one of the most essential skills you can cultivate in your first year.
On the topic of support, I can’t express enough gratitude towards the staff in the Materials department. They sincerely care about our success and are always receptive to our concerns. They recognize the hurdles we encounter and proactively work to address them. I didn’t fully take advantage of the pastoral resources available until later in the year, and I regret not utilizing them sooner. One step I took early in the year was becoming a year well-being representative. This position allowed me to forge connections with staff members, which proved to be incredibly advantageous. There are numerous ways to engage with faculty, and doing so can significantly enhance your university experience. My recommendation? Utilize the support systems available to you—you can never receive too much assistance.
In summary, this year has shown me that the apprehension I felt before starting university—and even during my time here—was often misplaced. With the appropriate support and mindset, those anxieties can be alleviated. I’ve discovered that I’m never genuinely alone, and I’ve learned how to balance diligence with enjoyment, even amidst stressful periods like exams and deadlines.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London