Written by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months back, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, doubt, and a significant amount of fear regarding the journey ahead. I was on the verge of commencing my first year in Materials Science and Engineering at Imperial College London. As someone who has always been rather introverted and reserved, immersing myself in an entirely unfamiliar setting felt daunting. However, reflecting on the past academic year, I recognize it as a period filled with personal development, obstacles, and many unforgettable experiences. So, what insights have I gained, and what is my current status?
One of the most daunting challenges at the outset was forging friendships. If you’re a future student, this might be a concern for you as well. I recall my inaugural day moving into student housing—I spent the whole day in my room, too anxious to venture out and introduce myself. Fast forward to today, and I can genuinely say I’ve formed some of the best friendships I’ve ever experienced. These bonds have become like a second family to me. What facilitated this? Simply initiating conversations with others who were equally new and uncertain. The primary takeaway here: make that first move. Even if you don’t feel entirely ready, there are numerous ice-breakers and social gatherings designed to help you mingle with others. And above all, be authentic. With such a varied student demographic, you’re sure to encounter individuals who resonate with your interests and principles.
Another significant adjustment was the pace of academic demands and the complexity involved. The transition from A-levels to university was considerable—and the jump from the first to the second term felt even more pronounced. It’s easy to feel daunted or to measure yourself against peers who seem to have everything under control. However, one thing that aided me was the realization that everyone is navigating similar challenges. If you’re having difficulty grasping a concept, it’s likely that others are experiencing the same issue. Don’t hesitate to seek assistance—whether from peers or instructors. Learning to ask for guidance is arguably one of the most essential skills to cultivate in your first year.
Regarding support, the faculty in the Materials department have been fantastic. They truly care about students’ achievements and welfare and are always receptive to suggestions. I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support available until later in the academic year, and I regret not doing so sooner. One proactive step I took early on was becoming a year well-being representative. This position allowed me to connect more deeply with staff members, which proved to be incredibly beneficial. There are various avenues to establish rapport with faculty, and doing so can significantly enrich your university experience. My suggestion? Make the most of the support available—you can never have too much.
In summary, this year has shown me that the apprehension I felt prior to and at the beginning of university was a common experience—and often baseless. With the backing of friends, faculty, and the broader university community, I discovered that I was never truly alone. Beyond that, I learned how to manage the demands of academic life while also enjoying myself, even during exam periods.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London