Written by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
In October 2022, I was overwhelmed with nerves, uncertainty, and a significant amount of fear. I was about to embark on my first year of studying Materials Science and Engineering at Imperial, and the prospect of jumping into something so unfamiliar was intimidating—especially for someone like myself, who has always leaned towards being more reserved. Now, reflecting on the past academic year, I can see just how much I’ve developed. It has been a year filled with personal growth, challenges, and a great deal of enjoyment. So, what insights have I gained, and where do I currently stand?
Among the most daunting challenges I encountered early on was the task of making friends. If you are an incoming student, this may be a concern for you as well. I recall spending my entire first day in the halls, confined to my room, too apprehensive to step out and introduce myself. But fast forward to now, and I’ve formed some of the best friendships I’ve ever experienced—individuals who have become like a second family to me. What was the turning point? I began with simple conversations and discovered that many others were experiencing the same feelings. The crucial lesson here: take that initial step. Even if you’re hesitant, there are numerous ice-breaker events and chances to meet new people. And above all, just be yourself. With such a diverse student population, you’re sure to find those you resonate with.
Another significant adjustment was the academic workload. The transition from A-levels to university was considerable—and the shift from the first to the second term felt even more pronounced. It’s easy to become overwhelmed or to compare yourself with others and feel as though you’re lagging behind. However, I realized that everyone faces challenges at some point. If you’re feeling lost or stuck, it’s likely others are too. The most crucial skill I honed this year was learning to seek assistance—whether it was from fellow students or faculty.
Speaking of faculty, the support from the Materials department has been remarkable. They truly care about our success and well-being, and they are consistently receptive to our concerns. Although I didn’t fully leverage the pastoral support until later in the year, I wish I had utilized it sooner. Early on, I took a significant step by becoming a Year Wellbeing Representative, which allowed me to foster relationships with staff members—a genuinely fulfilling experience. There are plenty of opportunities to connect with faculty, and doing so can greatly enhance your university experience. My recommendation: don’t hesitate to tap into the support available to you. You can never receive too much assistance.
In summary, this year has shown me that the anxiety I experienced before and during university was normal—but often unwarranted. With the backing of peers and staff, those feelings became manageable. I’ve discovered that I’m never entirely alone, and it is indeed possible to enjoy university life, even amidst the challenges of exams and deadlines.
By Guest Blogger
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Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London