Written by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I was consumed by nerves, doubt, and a considerable amount of fear as I got ready to embark on my first year of studying Materials Science and Engineering at Imperial College London. Being someone who had always been rather shy and reserved, plunging into university life felt intimidating. Reflecting on the past year, I can now see a journey filled with personal development, obstacles, and remarkable moments. So, what lessons have I taken away, and where do I stand now?
One of the primary challenges I encountered early on was forming friendships. This is a concern shared by many newcomers, and I was certainly among them. On the day I moved into my accommodation—right before term started—I spent nearly the whole day in my room, too anxious to venture out and introduce myself. Fast forward to now, and I can proudly say that I’ve built some of the best friendships I’ve ever had. These bonds, developed through shared experiences in my course and around campus, have turned into a second family. What made a difference? Simply initiating conversations with individuals who were equally new and hesitant. My most significant lesson? Take that leap early. Even if you feel unprepared, there are numerous ice-breakers and events aimed at helping you connect with others. And above all, be yourself—Imperial is filled with diverse individuals, and you will surely find your community.
Another significant obstacle was acclimating to the academic workload and the intricacies of the course material. The transition from A-levels to university studies was considerable—and the shift from the first to the second term felt even more substantial. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed or to have self-doubt when you see others studying with confidence. However, one thing that aided me was recalling that everyone is navigating the same challenges. If you’re having difficulty grasping a concept, it’s likely that others are as well. Don’t be afraid to seek help—be it from your fellow students or your lecturers. Learning to ask for assistance is one of the most essential skills you can acquire in your first year.
Speaking of assistance, I cannot emphasize enough how fantastic the staff in the Materials department are. They genuinely wish for students to thrive and are always receptive to feedback and communication. Although I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support available until later in the year, I regret not doing so earlier. Initially, I took a bold step and became a year well-being representative, which allowed me to establish relationships with staff members. Familiarizing yourself with your lecturers and support staff can make a tremendous impact, and there are countless ways to achieve this. My advice? Take full advantage of the resources available—you can never have too much help.
In summary, this year has taught me that the anxiety I experienced before and during the university’s beginning was completely normal—but often unwarranted. With the backing of staff and fellow students, those anxieties quickly diminished. I’ve realized that I’m never genuinely alone, and that enjoying university life is possible—even amidst the stresses of exams and deadlines.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London