Written 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 fear about what lay ahead. I was on the brink of starting my first year of studying Materials Science and Engineering at Imperial College London, and as someone who had always been quite shy and reserved, embarking on such a new and unfamiliar path felt daunting. Now, reflecting on the past academic year, I see a journey rich in personal development, obstacles, and memorable experiences. So, what have I discovered, and where do I find myself today?
One of the most significant and daunting challenges I encountered early on was forming friendships. If you’re an incoming student, this might be something that concerns you as well. On the day I moved into my accommodation—just a few days before the term officially started—I spent the entire day in my room, too anxious to venture out and introduce myself. But fast forward to today, and I can proudly say that I’ve forged some of the best friendships of my life. I’ve discovered a second family here at Imperial, both within my course and across the university. It all began with a little small talk and the bravery to reach out to others who were just as new and uncertain as I was. What I’ve come to understand is this: take that plunge early. Even if you don’t feel prepared, there are numerous ice-breaker events and social opportunities tailored to help you connect with others. And most crucially, be yourself. With such a varied student population, you’re sure to find others who resonate with your interests and values.
Another hurdle I faced was adapting to the academic workload and the heightened level of difficulty. There was certainly a noticeable increase from A-levels, and in many ways, the leap from the first to the second term felt even more pronounced. It’s easy to feel inundated or to compare yourself to others who appear to have everything figured out. But one thing that truly aided me was reminding myself that everyone is experiencing similar challenges. If you’re finding it hard to grasp something, chances are others are facing the same issue. So don’t hesitate to seek assistance—whether from your classmates or your lecturers. Learning to request help is probably the most valuable skill I acquired during my first year.
Speaking of support, I must emphasize how outstanding the staff in the Materials department are. They truly care about our success and well-being, and they’re always receptive to feedback and communication. I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support available until later in the year, but I wish I had taken advantage of it earlier. One of the best decisions I made was becoming a year well-being representative. This position allowed me to cultivate relationships with staff members, which turned out to be immensely beneficial. There are numerous ways to connect with your lecturers and tutors, and doing so can significantly enhance your university experience. My key takeaway here? Utilize the support systems available to you—you can never have too much assistance.
All in all, this year has revealed to me that the anxiety I experienced before and at the start of university was normal, yet often unwarranted. With the vast array of support available—from staff, peers, and the university community—I’ve learned that I’m never truly alone. I’ve also figured out how to balance work and leisure, even during stressful periods such as exams and deadlines.
Looking forward, I feel more confident and eager for what lies ahead. If you’re about to embark on your university adventure, know that it’s perfectly fine to feel anxious—but also be aware that you are capable of more than you might realize.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London