Written by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
In October 2022, I found myself overwhelmed with anxiety, uncertainty, and a considerable amount of fear. I was on the brink of starting my first year in Materials Science and Engineering at Imperial College London, and the idea of immersing myself in university life felt intimidating—especially as someone who has always been a bit introverted. Now, reflecting on the past academic year, I recognize a journey filled with personal development, challenges, and remarkable experiences. So, what have I learned, and where do I stand now?
One of the most significant and daunting challenges I encountered at the outset was forming friendships. Beginning university can be quite intimidating, and if you’re a future student reading this, you may have similar concerns. I recall my first day in student accommodation, where I stayed in my room, too apprehensive to engage with anyone. Fast forward to now, and I’m thrilled to share that I’ve formed some of the best friendships of my life—individuals who feel akin to family. The key moment? Simply striking up conversations with others who were just as new and uncertain as I was. My main piece of advice here: make the effort early on. Even if you aren’t completely ready, there are many ice-breakers and social gatherings designed to facilitate connections. And most importantly, stay true to yourself. With such a diverse student population, you’re sure to find those who share your passions and values.
Another significant hurdle was adapting to the academic demands. The transition from A-levels was palpable, and the shift from the first term to the second brought an even steeper learning curve. It’s tempting to feel as though you’re lagging behind when you notice peers studying diligently or grasping concepts quicker than you. But here’s what benefited me: reminding myself that we’re all in this together. If you’re finding something difficult, it’s likely that others are too. Don’t hesitate to seek help—whether from classmates or instructors. Learning to ask for assistance is arguably one of the most essential skills you can cultivate in your first year.
Speaking of assistance, the staff in the Materials department are exceptional. They genuinely prioritize student welfare and are always receptive to feedback and communication. I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support available until later in the year, and I now wish I had engaged with it sooner. One of the best choices I made was becoming a year well-being representative. This position afforded me the opportunity to establish connections with staff members and gain a better understanding of the available support systems. If you have the chance to connect with staff—whether through roles like this or simply by attending office hours—seize it. The support is there, and it can significantly impact your experience.
In summary, this year has shown me that the apprehensive feelings I harbored before and during university were entirely normal—and, more crucially, manageable. With the right support and mindset, I’ve realized I am never truly alone. I’ve also learned how to strike a balance between academic pressures and savoring the university experience. It’s been a year of development, and I eagerly anticipate what lies ahead.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London