Written by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with nerves, uncertainty, and quite a bit of fear regarding what lay ahead. I had just embarked on my first year as a Materials Science and Engineering student at Imperial College London. As someone who has always been introverted and quiet, plunging into university life felt like stepping out of my comfort zone completely. But reflecting on the past year, I see a journey filled with personal development, obstacles, and memorable experiences. So, what insights have I gained, and where do I stand now?
One of the most daunting challenges I encountered early on was forging friendships. If you’re an incoming student, this might be a concern for you as well. I remember my initial day of moving into student accommodation—I spent the whole day in my room, too apprehensive to venture out and introduce myself. However, fast forward to today, and I’ve formed some of the closest friendships I’ve ever known. I’ve discovered a second family here at Imperial, all because I eventually took that initial step and started conversations with others who felt just as anxious as I did. The essential lesson? Embrace that leap in the beginning. Even if you’re not feeling prepared, there are plenty of ice-breaker events and chances to interact with others. And most importantly, be authentic. With such a diverse student body, you will surely find individuals you resonate with.
Another significant challenge was acclimating to the academic demands and the complexity of the course material. The transition from A-levels to university was substantial—and the shift from first to second term felt even more pronounced. It’s easy to become overwhelmed or question your abilities when you witness others studying rigorously. But one thing that supported me was the realization that everyone is experiencing similar struggles. If you’re finding something difficult to grasp, the chances are others are too. So don’t hesitate to seek assistance. This could be the most crucial skill you cultivate in your first year—reaching out to peers and faculty when you require guidance.
On the topic of support, the faculty in the Materials department have been outstanding. They genuinely prioritize students’ success and well-being and are always receptive to feedback. I didn’t fully leverage the available pastoral support until later in the academic year, but I wish I had done so earlier. One initiative I undertook early on was becoming a year well-being representative. This position allowed me to connect with faculty members and gain a deeper understanding of the support structures in place. There are countless opportunities to foster relationships with staff, and doing so can greatly enrich your university journey. My takeaway here? Don’t hesitate to utilize the assistance that’s available—you can never have too much support.
In summary, this year has shown me that the anxiety I experienced before and during university was often unfounded. With the extensive support from both staff and fellow students, I’ve realized that I’m never truly alone. I’ve also learned how to balance the demands of exams and deadlines while enjoying student life. It’s been a transformative year, and I look forward to what the future holds.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London