Written by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months prior, back in October 2022, I found myself consumed by nerves, uncertainty, and a considerable amount of fear. I was on the verge of commencing my first year in Materials Science and Engineering at Imperial College London, and the thought of facing the unknown felt daunting. As someone who has historically been somewhat shy and reserved, plunging into university life was a significant transition. Now, reflecting on the past academic year, I recognize a journey brimming with growth, challenges, and memorable experiences. So, what insights have I gained—and what is my current situation?
One of the most daunting hurdles I encountered early on was the quest to forge friendships. If you are a prospective student perusing this, you may have similar concerns. I recall my initial day moving into the halls—I spent the whole day in my room, too anxious to venture out and introduce myself. But fast forward to the present, and I can state with confidence that I’ve formed some of the closest friendships I’ve ever experienced. These relationships have turned into a second family for me. It all began with casual conversations and shared experiences. What I’ve realized is this: embrace that initial step, even if it feels intimidating. You don’t have to be entirely prepared—there will be ample icebreakers and social gatherings to facilitate connections with others. Most crucially, be authentic. With such a diverse student community, you will undoubtedly encounter individuals who align with your interests and values.
Another significant change was the academic workload. The shift from A-levels to university was substantial, and the transition from the first to the second term felt even more pronounced. It’s easy to become overwhelmed or to measure yourself against others, leading to feelings of inadequacy. But here’s the reality: everyone is navigating it as they progress. If you find yourself grappling with a concept, it’s likely that others are too. The most important lesson I learned here is to seek assistance—whether it’s from your peers or your instructors. Reaching out is not indicative of weakness; it’s an astute and essential aspect of learning.
On the topic of support, the faculty in the Materials department have been remarkable. They genuinely invest in our success and well-being. They recognize the hurdles we encounter and are always receptive to feedback and dialogue. I didn’t take full advantage of the pastoral support available until later in the academic year, and I regret not doing so sooner. One of the finest decisions I made was becoming a well-being representative for my year group. This position allowed me to collaborate closely with the faculty and gain a deeper understanding of the support systems available. Building rapport with your lecturers and tutors can be tremendously beneficial—they are there to assist you, and they genuinely wish to see you succeed.
In summary, this year has highlighted that the fears and anxieties I experienced at the beginning were normal—but often misplaced. There’s a wealth of support from both staff and fellow students, and you are never truly alone. I’ve learned to navigate the balance between enjoyment and relaxation alongside the demands of exams and deadlines. Most significantly, I’ve discovered the importance of stepping beyond my comfort zone and embracing the vast opportunities that university life presents.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London