Written by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with nervousness, uncertainty, and a substantial amount of fear. I was on the verge of starting my first year in Materials Science and Engineering at Imperial College London. As someone who has always been somewhat introverted and shy, plunging into university life seemed quite intimidating. However, reflecting on the past academic year, I see a journey marked by personal development, obstacles, and many unforgettable experiences. So, what insights have I gained, and what’s my current status?
One of the most daunting challenges I encountered initially was forming friendships. If you’re considering joining, this might be a concern for you as well. I recall spending my entire first day tucked away in my room, too anxious to venture out and meet anyone. Yet, fast forward to now, and I can sincerely say that I’ve formed some of the best friendships I’ve ever known—both within my course and throughout the university. These bonds have evolved into a second family for me. What was the game-changer? Simply initiating small conversations with others who were equally new and apprehensive as I was.
The key takeaway I gathered from this is to take that initial leap of faith. Even if you don’t feel prepared, there are numerous ice-breaking opportunities and events aimed at helping you connect with others. Most importantly, be true to yourself. With such a varied student body, you’re sure to encounter people who resonate with your interests and principles.
Another significant adjustment was the academic demands and difficulty level. Transitioning from A-levels to university was considerable—and the shift from the first term to the second was even more pronounced. It’s natural to feel inundated or to question your capabilities when you witness others studying rigorously or grasping concepts more rapidly than you. Yet, here’s what aided me: remembering that everyone shares the same experiences. If you’re having difficulty understanding something, it’s likely that others are as well. Don’t hesitate to seek assistance—whether from your classmates or the teaching faculty. Learning to ask for help is arguably the most vital skill you can cultivate in your first year.
Speaking of faculty, the support from the Materials department has been outstanding. The lecturers and staff genuinely want us to thrive, and they fully recognize the hurdles we encounter. They keep communication channels open and are always ready to listen. I didn’t fully exploit the pastoral support available until later in the year, and I wish I had reached out earlier.
One of the wisest choices I made was becoming a year well-being representative. This position allowed me to collaborate closely with the staff and establish better connections—relationships that turned out to be immensely beneficial. There are plenty of ways to foster relationships with your faculty, and doing so can significantly enrich your university experience. My suggestion? Take complete advantage of the support structures surrounding you. You can never have too much assistance.
In summary, this year has shown me that the fears and worries I experienced—both prior to and during university—were frequently unfounded. With the support of friends, faculty, and the broader university community, I’ve realized that I’m never truly solitary. I’ve also learned how to navigate the stresses of academic life while still enjoying moments of happiness and fun.
By Guest Blogger
Categorized under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London