Reflections on My Initial Year in Materials Science and Engineering
Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with nerves, uncertainty, and a considerable amount of apprehension. I was about to embark on my journey as a first-year student in the Materials Science and Engineering MEng program at Imperial College London. As someone who has always been somewhat introverted and reserved, jumping into university life felt intimidating. Yet, reflecting on the year now, I recognize it as a time brimming with growth, difficulties, and lasting memories. So, what insights have I gained, and where do I find myself now?
One of the foremost challenges I encountered early on was forging friendships. This is a common concern for many newcomers, and I was no different. On the day I moved into my residence—just a few days prior to the start of the term—I spent the entire day sequestered in my room, too anxious to venture out and meet new people. Fast forward to today, and I can proudly say I’ve cultivated some of the most meaningful friendships of my life. I’ve discovered a second family here at Imperial, and it all began with a bit of casual conversation with others who shared the same apprehensions. The essential takeaway? Initiate that first interaction. Even if you’re not feeling prepared, there will be ample opportunities and activities to help you bond with others. Most importantly, stay true to yourself—Imperial is a melting pot of diverse individuals, and you’re sure to find your circle.
Another significant adaptation was to the academic demands and the complexity of the material. The transition from A-levels to university was substantial, and the shift from the first to the second term was even more pronounced. It’s easy to feel inundated or to question your capabilities when you observe others appearing to excel. But here’s what aided me: keeping in mind that everyone is experiencing similar challenges. If you find something difficult to grasp, it’s likely that others are as well. Don’t hesitate to seek assistance—whether from classmates or faculty. Learning to ask for support is one of the most beneficial skills you can acquire in your first year.
On the subject of support, I can’t emphasize enough the exceptional staff in the Materials department. They truly care about our success and well-being, and they remain open to communication and feedback. Although I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support until later in the year, I wish I had reached out earlier. One initiative I took early on was serving as a year well-being representative. This position allowed me to establish relationships with staff members and understand how much they prioritize our experience. There are numerous ways to connect with faculty, and doing so can significantly enrich your university experience. My recommendation? Make the most of the available support—you can never have too much.
In summary, this year has illustrated to me that the anxiety I felt prior to and during university was often unwarranted. Thanks to the support from both staff and fellow students, those feelings became manageable. I’ve discovered that I’m never genuinely alone, and I’ve learned how to balance the challenges of academic life with moments of enjoyment and happiness.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London