Reflections on My Inaugural Year in Materials Science and Engineering
Written by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with nerves, uncertainty, and a good deal of fear. I was on the verge of starting my adventure as a first-year student in the Materials Science and Engineering MEng program at Imperial College London. As someone who has always been somewhat shy and introverted, immersing myself in a completely unfamiliar setting felt daunting. Now, upon reflecting on the past academic year, I recognize it as a period marked by personal development, challenges, and unforgettable moments. So, what insights have I gained, and where do I stand now?
One of the most significant and daunting hurdles I encountered early on was establishing friendships. If you’re an incoming student, this may be a source of anxiety for you as well. I recall spending my whole first day in student housing, sheltering 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 closest friendships I’ve ever experienced—individuals who feel like a second family. It all began with brief chats with others who were equally uncertain. The crucial takeaway? Take that initial step. Even if you don’t feel prepared, there are numerous ice-breakers and social gatherings intended to assist you in connecting with others. Most importantly, be true to yourself. With such a diverse student community, you’re sure to find peers you resonate with.
Another significant adaptation was managing the academic demands and the heightened complexity of the material. The transition from A-levels to university was considerable, and the jump from the first to the second term was even more pronounced. It’s easy to feel as if you’re lagging behind when you observe others studiously engaged and seemingly mastering everything. However, one thing that saw me through those periods was the realization that I wasn’t alone—many others were experiencing the same challenges. If you’re having difficulty understanding something, it’s likely others are as well. Don’t hesitate to seek assistance. Learning to reach out—be it to classmates or faculty—is one of the most valuable skills you can nurture in your first year.
Speaking of faculty, the support from the Materials department has been exceptional. The lecturers and support staff genuinely prioritize our success and well-being. They recognize the hurdles we encounter and are always receptive to feedback and communication. I didn’t fully take advantage of the pastoral support available until later in the year, and I wish I had exploited it sooner. One initiative I undertook early was becoming a year well-being representative. This position allowed me to foster relationships with the staff, which proved to be exceedingly helpful. There are myriad ways to familiarize yourself with your lecturers and support staff, and doing so can significantly enrich your university journey. My suggestion? Take full advantage of the support that’s accessible—you can never have too much help.
In summary, this year has shown me that the anxiety I experienced at the start was normal, though often unwarranted. With the extensive support from both staff and fellow students, I was never genuinely alone. I’ve discovered how to balance stress with enjoyment and how to grow through the trials that accompany university life.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London