Written by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Approximately ten months ago, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, uncertainty, and quite a bit of fear while gearing up to embark on my first year of studying Materials Science and Engineering at Imperial. Starting university felt akin to plunging into the deep end—something my formerly shy and reserved nature had not encountered before. However, reflecting on the year now, I recognize a journey filled with personal development, 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 at the beginning was forging friendships. If you’re an incoming student, this may be a concern for you as well. I recall my first day in student accommodation, where I remained in my room, hesitant to venture out and introduce myself. Fast forward to today, and I can proudly affirm that I’ve formed some of the best friendships of my life—individuals who feel like family. It merely took a bit of casual conversation with others who were equally new and uncertain. My most important takeaway? Embrace that leap early on. Even if you don’t feel prepared, numerous ice-breakers and events are designed to aid in connecting with others. And above all, be authentic. With such a diverse student community, you’re sure to meet people who align with your interests and values.
Another significant adjustment was the academic demands and the increase in difficulty compared to A-levels. The shift from the first to the second term was particularly tough. It’s easy to feel inundated or to measure yourself against peers who seem to be handling everything more adeptly. However, a reminder that helped me was that everyone is navigating similar struggles. If you’re having difficulty grasping a concept, it’s likely that others are as well. Don’t hesitate to seek assistance—whether from classmates or from the teaching staff. Learning to reach out for help is perhaps the most beneficial skill I gained in my first year.
On the topic of support, the staff in the Materials department have been remarkable. They truly care about student success and are very much aware of the hurdles we encounter. They are approachable, understanding, and maintain open lines of communication throughout the year. Although I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support until later on, I wish I had taken advantage of it earlier. One proactive step I did take early on was becoming a year well-being representative. This position allowed me to foster connections with staff members, which proved to be extremely valuable. There are numerous ways to cultivate relationships with staff, and doing so can significantly enrich your university experience. My recommendation? Take full advantage of the support available—you can never have too much.
In summary, this year has taught me that the fears and anxieties I held—both prior to and during university—were frequently baseless. With abundant support from both staff and fellow students, I’ve learned that I’m never truly alone. I’ve also figured out how to balance academic demands with enjoying university life. It’s been a life-changing year, and I’m eager for what lies ahead.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London