Written by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with nerves, uncertainty, and a substantial amount of fear. 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 leaned towards being more reserved and introverted, jumping into such a significant life transition felt daunting. However, reflecting on my first academic year now, I can recognize the growth I’ve experienced—both personally and academically. The year has been filled with challenges, learning opportunities, and unforgettable moments. So, what have I gleaned from this experience, and where do I stand now?
One of the most daunting challenges I encountered early on was the quest to make friends. If you’re a future student, this may be a concern for you as well. I recall my initial day in student accommodation, just prior to the term beginning—I spent the entire day in my room, too anxious to venture out and introduce myself. Fast forward to now, and I can confidently affirm that I’ve formed some of the best friendships I’ve ever had. These relationships, developed through mutual experiences in my course and around campus, have come to feel like a second family. What aided me? Simply starting with small interactions—engaging in conversation with others who were equally new and uncertain. The most significant lesson here: take that initial step. Even if you’re not entirely ready, there are ample ice-breakers and social events designed to facilitate connections. And above all, be yourself. With such a varied student population, you’re sure to find individuals who resonate with your interests and values.
Another significant transition was adapting to the academic workload and the complexity of the course material. The transition from A-levels to university study was considerable, and the shift from the first to the second term was even more pronounced. It’s easy to feel as though you’re lagging behind when you observe others studying intensely and seemingly grasping all the concepts. However, I came to realize that everyone encounters struggles at some stage. If you’re feeling perplexed or stuck, chances are others are in the same boat. Therefore, don’t hesitate to seek assistance—whether from your peers or your instructors. Mastering the art of asking for help is one of the most important skills you can cultivate in your first year.
This leads me to another crucial insight: the remarkable support provided by the staff in the Materials department. They genuinely care about our success and well-being. They comprehend the challenges we encounter and are always receptive to feedback and dialogue. I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support available until later in the year, and I wish I’d done so earlier. I took a leap early on and became a well-being representative for my year group. This role allowed me to forge connections with staff members, which turned out to be immensely beneficial. There are numerous avenues to connect with staff, and doing so can significantly enhance your university experience. Take full advantage of the support systems available—you can never have too much assistance.
In summary, my first year has taught me that the anxiety I felt prior to starting university—and even throughout the year—was frequently unwarranted. With the backing of friends, staff, and the broader university community, I’ve come to understand that I’m never truly alone. I’ve also learned how to juggle academic demands with enjoyment, and how to make the most of my university experience—even during challenging periods such as exams and deadlines.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London