Written by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, uncertainty, and a good deal of apprehension. I was on the verge of starting my journey as a first-year student in the Materials Science and Engineering program at Imperial College London. Being naturally shy and introverted, plunging into university life felt daunting. Now, reflecting on this past academic year, I see a journey characterized 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 forming friendships. If you’re an incoming student, this might be a source of anxiety for you as well. I recall my first day settling into student housing—I spent the whole day in my room, too apprehensive to go out and meet people. But looking at where I am now, I can proudly say I’ve forged some of the best friendships of my life, both within my program and throughout the university. These individuals have become like a second family to me. What facilitated this? Simply starting small talks with others who were just as new and uncertain as I was. The major takeaway? Take that initial step early on. Even if you don’t feel prepared, there will be numerous chances—icebreakers, events, and shared experiences—to help you link up with others. And most importantly, stay true to yourself. With such a varied student population, you’re sure to find people who resonate with your interests and values.
Another significant adjustment was the academic workload and the complexity of the material. The leap from A-levels was palpable, and the transition from the first to the second term was especially intense. It’s easy to feel as if you’re lagging or not measuring up, particularly when you witness others around you studying diligently. However, a crucial realization for me was that everyone is experiencing similar challenges. If you’re finding it tough to grasp a topic, chances are others are as well. Don’t hesitate to seek assistance—this may be the most vital lesson I learned in my first year. Whether it’s your classmates or your professors, there’s invariably someone willing to help.
On the topic of support, the staff in the Materials department are exceptional. They truly care about the success and well-being of students. Throughout the year, they maintained open channels of communication and were always willing to listen to feedback. I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support available until the latter part of the year, and I wish I had engaged with it earlier. Early in the year, I took a chance and became a well-being representative for my cohort. This position allowed me to form valuable relationships with staff, which proved to be immensely beneficial. There are various ways to connect with faculty, and doing so can greatly enhance your university journey. My recommendation? Make the most of the support systems available—you can never have excess 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 backing of peers and staff, those feelings became more manageable. I’ve realized that I’m never truly alone, and I’ve learned how to navigate academic pressures alongside enjoyment and self-care.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London