Written by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I was consumed by nerves, uncertainty, and a considerable amount of fear. I was set to embark on my first year of studying Materials Science and Engineering at Imperial College London, and as someone who has always been fairly shy and introverted, plunging into university life felt daunting. Now, reflecting on the past academic year, I recognize a journey rich with personal development, obstacles, and incredible experiences. So, what insights did I gain, and what is my current position?
One of the most significant and daunting hurdles I confronted initially was forming friendships. If you’re a future student, this may be a concern for you as well. I recall spending my entire first day locked in my room, too apprehensive to venture out and introduce myself to anyone. But fast forward to the present, and I can proudly say I’ve forged some of the best friendships I’ve ever known—people who feel like an extension of my family. What made the difference? Simply initiating small conversations with fellow newcomers who were just as nervous and uncertain as I was. My key takeaway: take that step early on. Even if you don’t feel prepared, there are numerous ice-breakers and social activities meant to aid your connections. Most importantly, just be yourself. With a diverse student population, you’re bound to find individuals who resonate with your interests and values.
Another significant transition was managing the academic workload. The leap from A-levels to university-level learning was substantial, and the shift from the first to the second term felt even more demanding. It’s easy to feel as though you’re lagging or not measuring up, particularly when you observe others studying diligently. But here’s what supported me: remembering that everyone shares the same experiences. If you’re having difficulty grasping something, there’s a good chance others are facing similar challenges. Don’t hesitate to seek assistance—whether it’s from classmates or teaching staff. Mastering the ability to ask for help is one of the most crucial skills you can acquire in your first year.
Speaking of staff, the backing from the Materials department has been phenomenal. The lecturers and staff genuinely care about students’ success and are always receptive to feedback and dialogue. I didn’t fully leverage the pastoral support available until later in the year, and looking back, I wish I had reached out sooner. One bold move I made early on was volunteering as a year well-being representative. This role provided me with the chance to collaborate closely with staff and gain a deeper understanding of the support structures in place. Establishing relationships with your lecturers and tutors can be incredibly advantageous, and there are many ways to foster those connections. My suggestion? Don’t hesitate to utilize the assistance available—you can never have too much support.
Overall, this year has shown me that the anxiety I experienced before starting university—and even during my time there—was often baseless. With so many support systems in place, from both staff and fellow students, I’ve learned that I’m never truly alone. I’ve also figured out how to balance the pressures of exams and deadlines with enjoying the university experience.
This first year has been a life-changing journey, and I’m eager to discover what the next chapter has in store.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London