Written by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I was consumed by nerves, uncertainty, and a fair amount of fear. I was on the verge of starting my first year in Materials Science and Engineering at Imperial College London. As someone who has always been a bit shy and reserved, plunging into university life felt daunting. However, reflecting on my first academic year now, I recognize a journey marked by growth, challenges, and unforgettable moments. So, what insights have I gained, and what is my current situation?
One of the largest and most daunting hurdles I encountered early was forming new friendships. If you’re an incoming student, this might be a concern for you as well. I recall spending my entire first day in my room, too anxious to go out and introduce myself to anyone in my residence. Fast forward to today, and I can proudly affirm that I’ve formed some of the best friendships I’ve ever had—friends who feel like a second family. It all required was a little small talk and the bravery to connect with people who shared my newness and apprehension. What I’ve discovered is that taking that first step is essential. Even if you don’t feel prepared, there will be countless opportunities—ice-breakers, events, and shared experiences—that will facilitate meeting others. Most importantly, stay true to yourself. With such a diverse student community, you’re sure to encounter individuals who align with your interests and values.
Another significant adjustment was the academic workload and the intricacy of the material. The transition from A-levels to university was considerable—and the jump from the first term to the second felt even larger. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed or to compare your progress to others who seem to manage better. However, one realization that assisted me was understanding that everyone is experiencing similar challenges. If you’re finding something difficult to grasp, chances are others are too. So don’t hesitate to seek assistance. This might be the most crucial lesson I gleaned in my first year: reach out to your classmates and your lecturers. You aren’t meant to navigate this journey solo.
Talking about support, I can’t express enough how fantastic the staff in the Materials department are. They genuinely care about our success and well-being. They acknowledge the pressures students endure and are always receptive to feedback and communication. I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support available until later in the year, and I only wish I had taken advantage of it sooner. Early on, I took a bold step and became a year well-being representative. This position allowed me to collaborate closely with staff and gain a deeper understanding of the support systems available. Cultivating these relationships has been extremely rewarding, and I would urge every student to leverage the help that’s on offer. You can never have too much support.
In summary, this year has shown me that the anxieties I harbored—before and during university—were often unfounded. With adequate support from staff and fellow students, those apprehensions became manageable. I’ve learned that I’m never truly alone and that enjoying university life is possible, even amidst the stress of exams and deadlines.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London