Written by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
In October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, doubt, and a significant amount of fear. I was about to embark on my first year studying Materials Science and Engineering at Imperial College London, and the prospect of jumping straight into this new experience felt intimidating—particularly for someone who has always leaned more towards shyness and introversion. Reflecting on the past academic year now, I can truly appreciate how much I’ve evolved. It has been a journey of self-growth, obstacles, and plenty of enjoyment. So, what insights have I gained, and what is my current status?
One of the most significant and daunting challenges I encountered initially was forming friendships. If you’re an incoming student, this might be a concern for you as well. I vividly recall my first day settling into student accommodation—I spent the entire day in my room, too anxious to step out and introduce myself. However, looking at where I am now, I can assert that I’ve forged some of the greatest friendships I’ve ever known. I’ve discovered a second family in my time at Imperial, and it all began with a few straightforward conversations with fellow newcomers who shared my uncertainty.
The main takeaway? Make that leap early. Even if you don’t feel completely prepared, there are numerous ice-breakers and events specifically designed to help you forge connections with others. Most importantly, remain true to yourself. With such a diverse student population, you’re bound to find individuals who align with your interests and values.
On the academic front, the shift from A-levels to university was another considerable obstacle. The volume of work and the intricacy of the content ramped up rapidly—especially between the first and second terms. It’s easy to feel inundated or to gauge yourself against peers who appear to manage better. Yet, one valuable realization that aided me was understanding that everyone is facing similar challenges. If you’re having difficulties grasping a concept, it’s likely others are experiencing the same issue. Don’t hesitate to seek assistance—whether from classmates or lecturers. Learning to request help is arguably the most crucial skill I acquired during my first year.
Talking about support, the faculty in the Materials department has been phenomenal. They genuinely prioritize students’ well-being and success, and they are always receptive to feedback and dialogue. I didn’t fully utilize the available pastoral support until later in the year, and I regret not reaching out sooner. One of the best choices I made was becoming a well-being representative for my cohort. This role provided me with the chance to foster relationships with staff and engage in enhancing the student experience. There are myriad opportunities to connect with faculty, and taking advantage of these can significantly enrich your university experience.
In summary, this year has shown me that the apprehension I felt at the outset was a natural reaction—but not something to dread. With the backing of friends, staff, and the broader university community, I’ve come to realize that I’m never truly alone. I’ve also learned how to manage academic demands while still savoring student life. It’s been a transformative year, and I’m eager for what the future holds.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London