Written by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with nerves, uncertainty, and fear about what lay ahead. I was on the brink of starting my journey as a first-year student in Materials Science and Engineering at Imperial College London. Being someone who has always been shy and reserved, jumping into a completely new setting felt intimidating. But now, as I reflect on the past academic year, I recognize a period marked by personal growth, challenges, and memorable experiences. So, what insights have I gained, and where do I stand now?
One of the most significant and daunting challenges I encountered early on was the task of forming friendships. If you’re a potential student, this might be a concern for you as well. I vividly recall my first day in student accommodation—just a few days ahead of classes starting—I spent the whole day confined to my room, too anxious to venture out and say hello. Fast forward to the present, and I can genuinely say I’ve forged some of the best friendships of my life. I discovered a second family here at Imperial, simply by initiating small conversations with others who were just as inexperienced and apprehensive as I was. The key takeaway? Take that leap early. Even if you don’t feel prepared, numerous ice-breakers and events are arranged to help you engage with others. And above all, be true to yourself. With such a varied community, you’re sure to meet people who resonate with your interests and values.
Another significant challenge was adapting to the academic demands and the intricacy of the course material. Transitioning from A-levels to university was substantial—and the shift from the first term to the second was even more pronounced. It’s easy to feel inundated or to measure yourself against others who appear to be coping better. However, one thing that helped me was the realization that everyone is navigating similar challenges. If you’re finding something tough to grasp, there’s a good chance others are too. Don’t hesitate to seek assistance—whether from your classmates or faculty. Learning to ask for help is among the most vital skills you can cultivate in your initial year.
Speaking of faculty, the Materials department at Imperial is outstanding. The lecturers and support staff truly care about your achievements and well-being. They recognize the challenges students encounter and are always receptive to communication. I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support offered until later in the year, and I wish I had done so earlier. One bold step I took early on, however, was becoming a year well-being representative. This position allowed me to foster connections with staff members, which turned out to be incredibly beneficial. There are many avenues to get to know the staff, and this can significantly enrich your university experience. My primary lesson here? Make the most of the available support—you can never have too much assistance.
In summary, this year has taught me that the anxiety I felt before and during the start of university was normal—but often unwarranted. With the extensive support available from both staff and fellow students, you’re never genuinely alone. I’ve learned to strike a balance between enjoyment and relaxation while managing the pressures of exams and deadlines, and I’ve gained more confidence in myself along the way.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London