Written by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months back, in October 2022, I found myself overwhelmed with nerves, doubts, and a fair bit of anxiety. I was on the verge of starting my first year in Materials Science and Engineering at Imperial College London, and the idea of immersing myself in something so brand new and strange was quite intimidating—especially for someone like me, who has always been rather introverted. Now, reflecting on my first academic year, I can assert that it’s been a journey of personal development, obstacles, and a great deal of enjoyment. So, what have I discovered, and what’s my current situation?
One of the most significant and daunting obstacles early on was forging friendships. If you’re a prospective student browsing this, you might be experiencing the same apprehension. I vividly recall my first day in student housing—I spent the whole day in my room, too anxious to venture out and introduce myself. But fast-forward to now, and I’ve formed some of the closest friendships of my life. These relationships have become like a second family to me. What made the difference? Simply initiating a conversation with someone in similar circumstances. My biggest lesson: take that plunge early. Even if you don’t feel prepared, there are numerous events and ice-breakers to assist you. And most crucially, stay true to yourself. With such a varied student population, you’re sure to meet people who resonate with your interests and values.
Academically, shifting from A-levels to the rigors of university study was yet another substantial challenge. The workload increased dramatically, and the transition from the first term to the second was even more pronounced. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed or to measure yourself against peers who seem to be managing better. But one thing that propelled me forward was the realization that everyone is adapting. If you’re having difficulty grasping a concept, chances are others are as well. Don’t hesitate to seek assistance—whether from fellow students or faculty. Learning to reach out when you need help is among the most valuable skills you can cultivate in your first year.
Speaking of assistance, I can’t praise the staff in the Materials department enough. They truly care about students’ success and well-being, and they are always receptive to feedback and open communication. I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support until later in the year, and I regret not doing so sooner. Early in the journey, I took a chance by volunteering as a year well-being representative. This position enabled me to establish connections with staff members, which proved to be incredibly advantageous. There are numerous avenues to connect with your lecturers and tutors, and doing so can significantly enhance your university experience. My recommendation? Take full advantage of the support available—you can never have too much.
All in all, this year has demonstrated to me that the apprehensions and doubts I initially faced were natural but often unfounded. With the appropriate support and mindset, those feelings can be managed and conquered. I’ve learned that I’m never genuinely alone, and that it is entirely feasible to relish university life—even while managing exams and deadlines.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London