Written by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
In October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, doubt, and quite a bit of fear as I geared up to start my first year in Materials Science and Engineering at Imperial. Having always been a bit timid and reserved, plunging into university life seemed intimidating. Now, ten months later, I can reflect on a year filled with personal development, obstacles, and a great deal of enjoyment. So, what insights have I gained, and what is my current perspective?
One of the most significant and daunting challenges I encountered early on was forming friendships. If you’re an incoming student, this may be a concern for you as well. I recall spending my initial day in student accommodations concealed in my room, too apprehensive to introduce myself to anyone. But fast forward to now, and I can truthfully say I’ve forged some of the finest friendships I’ve ever known—individuals who have come to feel like a second family. What facilitated this? Starting with small interactions. Engaging in light conversation with others who were equally new and uncertain made all the difference. My suggestion? Take the initiative early on. Even if you don’t feel prepared, there are numerous ice-breakers and social gatherings intended to assist you in making connections. Most importantly, be authentic. With such a varied student community, you’re likely to find people who resonate with you.
Academically, transitioning from A-levels to university studies presented another significant obstacle. The increase in workload and complexity was tangible—especially between the first and second terms. It’s easy to feel inundated or to compare yourself to peers and feel as though you’re lagging behind. However, one of the key lessons I learned was that everyone shares similar struggles. If something is unclear to you, it’s likely unclear to others as well. Therefore, don’t hesitate to seek assistance—from fellow students, your tutors, or your lecturers. Cultivating the ability to ask for help is one of the most beneficial skills you can acquire in your first year.
On the topic of support, the staff within the Materials department have been extraordinary. They truly care about the students and are consistently receptive to feedback and dialogue. I didn’t make full use of the pastoral support available until later in the year, and I regret not reaching out sooner. Early on, I took a bold step and became a year well-being representative, which allowed me to nurture relationships with staff. That experience was priceless. There are numerous avenues to connect with staff, and doing so can significantly enrich your university journey. If there’s one thing to remember, it’s this: leverage the available support—you can never have too much.
In summary, this year has informed me that the anxiety and apprehension I experienced at the start were normal, albeit manageable. With the appropriate support and mindset, those feelings can be navigated. I’ve discovered that I’m never truly alone and that embracing university life is feasible—even amidst the pressures of exams and deadlines.
By Guest Blogger
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Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London