Written by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
In October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, doubt, and a good amount of fear as I readied myself to embark on my journey into the world of Materials Science and Engineering at Imperial. Being someone who has always been relatively shy and withdrawn, plunging into university life seemed intimidating. Fast forward to now, after nearly ten months, I reflect on a year brimming with development, obstacles, and memorable moments. So, what insights have I gained, and where do I stand today?
One of the major challenges I faced at the beginning was forging friendships. This is a common concern for many newcomers, and I was no different. On the day I settled into my accommodation—just days before the term kicked off—I remained in my room the entire day, too anxious to venture out and meet new people. Now, I can assert that I’ve formed some of the closest friendships in my life. I’ve discovered a surrogate family here at Imperial, and it all commenced with a few straightforward dialogues with others who felt just as uneasy as I did. The crucial takeaway? Make that initial move. Even if you don’t feel prepared, there are numerous ice-breakers and social gatherings designed to facilitate connections. Most importantly, remain true to yourself. With such a varied student demographic, you’ll surely find individuals who resonate with your interests and principles.
Another impediment I faced was acclimating to the academic demands. The transition from A-levels to university studies was substantial, and the shift from the first term to the second was even more pronounced. It’s quite easy to become inundated or to measure yourself against peers, leading to feelings of lagging behind. What helped me navigate this was the realisation that I wasn’t isolated—numerous classmates were experiencing similar struggles. If there’s one critical piece of advice I would share with any first-year student, it’s this: don’t hesitate to seek assistance. Whether it’s from fellow students or professors, reaching out can be transformative.
Regarding lecturers, the faculty in the Materials department has been exceptionally supportive. They are genuinely invested in students’ success and are always receptive to input and dialogue. I didn’t fully leverage the available pastoral support until later in the year, and I regret not doing so sooner. In the early stages, I took a bold step and became a year well-being representative, which allowed me to collaborate closely with staff and gain a deeper understanding of the support mechanisms in place. Cultivating those connections has been one of the highlights of my year. If help is accessible—utilize it. You can never have too much support.
In summary, this year has taught me that the apprehension I experienced prior to starting university was normal, but often unwarranted. There is a wealth of resources, individuals, and opportunities at your disposal to aid your success and enhance your university experience. I’ve come to understand that I’m never really alone, and it’s feasible to juggle academic demands with enjoyment and personal development.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London