Written by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Reflecting on October 2022, I recall feeling anxious, uncertain, and somewhat overwhelmed. I was on the verge of starting my first year in Materials Science and Engineering at Imperial College London, and the idea of venturing into something so unfamiliar was intimidating—especially considering I used to be quite shy and reserved. Now, almost a year later, I can assert that this academic year has been filled with growth, challenges, and memorable experiences. So, what insights have I gained, and what is my current status?
One of the most significant and daunting challenges I encountered early on was forging friendships. If you’re a prospective student, this might be a concern for you as well. I recall spending my entire first day in my accommodation room, too anxious to venture out and introduce myself. But fast forward to today, I have formed some of the closest friendships I’ve ever known—friends who feel like family. What changed? I took small steps: initiating conversations, participating in events, and simply being myself. That’s the crux—be true to yourself. With such a diverse student population, you’re sure to find individuals you resonate with. And if you’re not ready immediately, that’s perfectly fine. There are plenty of activities and social occasions designed to help you ease in.
Academically, the shift from A-levels to university presented another major hurdle. The workload increased significantly, and the material grew more intricate—especially transitioning from the first to the second term. It’s easy to feel like you’re lagging behind when you observe others studying diligently, but I discovered that everyone shares the same experience. If you’re finding something challenging, it’s likely others are, too. The most important lesson here? Don’t hesitate to seek help. Whether from your peers or lecturers, support is always at hand—you just need to reach out.
On the topic of support, the staff in the Materials department have been wonderful. They genuinely care about students’ well-being and success and are always receptive to feedback and communication. I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support until later in the year, and I regret not doing so earlier. One of the best choices I made was becoming a year well-being representative. It allowed me to connect with staff and gain insight into the available support systems. Cultivating those relationships has been invaluable, and I urge every student to engage with staff—it can significantly impact your experience.
In summary, this year has shown me that those initial anxieties and fears are often baseless. With the right support and outlook, university becomes a space not only for academic advancement but also for personal growth and enjoyment. I’ve realized that I’m never genuinely alone, and it’s feasible to strike a balance between enjoyment and the pressures of exams and deadlines.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London