Written by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I was overcome with nerves, uncertainty, and a fair amount of apprehension. I was on the verge of starting my adventure as a first-year student in the Materials Science and Engineering MEng program at Imperial. For someone who had always been quiet and withdrawn, immersing myself in such a new and unknown atmosphere felt daunting. However, reflecting back now, I recognize a year filled with personal growth, obstacles, and remarkable memories. So, what insights have I gained, and where do I stand today?
One of the most daunting tasks at the outset was forging friendships. If you’re a prospective student reading this, you may very well be experiencing the same tension. I recall spending my entire first day in my accommodation hiding in my room, too anxious to venture out and introduce myself. But here I am today, able to honestly say I’ve formed some of the best friendships I’ve ever known—friends who feel like an extension of my family. All it took was stepping outside my comfort zone and engaging in small talk with others who were just as new and uncertain as I was. The vital lesson here? Take that plunge early on. Even if you don’t feel prepared, there will be numerous opportunities—ice-breakers, events, and casual conversations—that will aid in connecting with others. And most importantly, be yourself. With such a varied student body, you’re sure to encounter individuals who align with your interests and values.
Another significant challenge was adapting to the academic demands and the complexity of the material. There is certainly a clear increase from A-levels, with an even more drastic jump from the first to the second term. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed or to compare your progress with others who seem to be coping better. However, one important realization for me was that everyone is experiencing similar struggles. If you’re having trouble grasping something, it’s likely that others are too. Don’t hesitate to seek assistance—whether from classmates or faculty. Learning to ask for help is arguably one of the most crucial skills you can cultivate in your first year.
On the topic of faculty, the backing from the Materials department has been exceptional. They truly want students to thrive and understand the challenges we encounter. They’re accessible, compassionate, and maintain open communication throughout the year. I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support available until later in the year, and I wish I had taken advantage of it sooner. One of my best decisions was becoming a year well-being representative. It provided me with the opportunity to collaborate closely with staff and deepen my connections with them—an experience I found immensely rewarding. There are numerous ways to build rapport with faculty, and doing so can greatly enrich your university journey. My suggestion? Take full advantage of the support that is provided. You can never have too much assistance.
In summary, this year has shown me that the apprehension I felt in the beginning—while entirely normal—was frequently unwarranted. With the right support and a readiness to step outside your comfort zone, things do improve. I’ve discovered that I’m never actually alone, and it’s feasible to relish university life even while balancing exams, deadlines, and all the tasks in between.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London