Written by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I found myself engulfed in anxiety, uncertainty, and a touch of fear as I geared up to embark on my journey in Materials Science and Engineering. Entering university as a freshman felt like plunging into the deep end—something my formerly shy and reserved nature wasn’t accustomed to. Now, reflecting on the year, I perceive a path filled with personal development, obstacles, and numerous unforgettable experiences. So, what insights have I gained, and what is my current status?
One of the most significant and daunting hurdles I encountered at the beginning was forging friendships. If you’re an incoming student, this might be a concern for you as well. I recall my initial day in student housing, where I found myself retreating to my room, too anxious to venture out and introduce myself. But fast forward to now, and I can sincerely say I’ve formed some of the best friendships I could have hoped for—both within my course and across the university. It appears that all it required was a little bit of casual conversation with others who were just as new and apprehensive as I was. The key takeaway? Take that initial step, even if it feels daunting. There are ample icebreakers and events designed to facilitate connections with others. And above all, be genuine. With such a varied student population, you are likely to meet individuals who resonate with your interests and values.
Another significant transition was managing the academic workload. The shift from A-levels to university-level coursework was quite apparent—and the transition from the first to the second term was even more extreme. It’s easy to feel daunted or to measure yourself against peers who seem to have it all sorted out. But here’s what aided me: keeping in mind that everyone is navigating the same challenges. If you’re finding it tough to grasp something, chances are others are in the same boat. Don’t shy away from seeking assistance—from your classmates or your professors. Learning to request help is perhaps the most vital skill I cultivated during my first year.
On the subject of support, the faculty in the Materials department have been outstanding. They truly care about our achievements and are always willing to listen to the challenges we encounter. I didn’t fully embrace the pastoral support available until later in the academic year, and I wish I had taken advantage of it sooner. One bold step I took early on was becoming a year well-being representative. This position allowed me to foster connections with faculty members, which turned out to be immensely beneficial. There are numerous avenues to familiarize yourself with your lecturers and tutors, and doing so can significantly enrich your university journey. My greatest takeaway here? Utilize the support at your disposal—you can never have an excess of it.
In summary, this year has illustrated to me that the nerves and uncertainties I experienced before commencing university were normal, yet frequently unfounded. With the backing of friends, faculty, and the broader university community, I’ve discovered that I’m never truly isolated. I’ve also learned how to juggle the demands of deadlines and exams while savoring student life.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London