Written by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, uncertainty, and quite a bit of fear. I was about to embark on my first-year journey in Materials Science and Engineering at Imperial College London, and the mere thought of entering a realm so unfamiliar and new was intimidating—especially for a person like myself, who has always leaned towards being more reserved. Now, reflecting on the past academic year, I recognize a path marked by personal development, hurdles, and remarkable experiences. So, what insights have I gained, and what is my current standing?
One of the foremost obstacles I encountered early on was forging friendships. If you’re an incoming student, this might be a concern for you as well—and I can relate. On the day I settled into my accommodation, merely days before term officially began, I spent the whole day in my room, too anxious to venture out and introduce myself to anyone. Fast forward to now, and I can truly say I’ve formed some of the most meaningful friendships I’ve ever experienced—individuals who feel like a second family. All it required was stepping outside my comfort zone and initiating conversations with others who were equally new and uncertain. My key takeaway? Don’t hesitate to make that initial move. Even if you don’t feel entirely self-assured at the start, there will be numerous chances—ice-breakers, events, and casual discussions—that facilitate connection. And above all, be genuine. With such a varied student population, you’re sure to find those who reflect your interests and values.
Another significant adjustment involved the academic workload. The transition from A-levels to university-level material was considerable—and the leap from the first term to the second term was even more pronounced. It’s easy to feel inundated or to compare your situation with others who appear to be managing better. But one thing that aided me was the realization that everybody is experiencing similar challenges. If you’re having difficulty grasping a concept, most likely, others are too. That’s why seeking help is critical. Whether it’s classmates or lecturers, don’t hesitate to ask for assistance. Learning to seek help is one of the most crucial skills you can cultivate in your first year.
Speaking of support, I can’t express enough positivity about the staff in the Materials department. They truly care about students’ well-being and success. Throughout the year, they maintained open communication and were always ready to address our concerns. I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support available until later in the year, and I regret not doing so sooner. One proactive step I took early in the year was becoming a well-being representative for my year. This role allowed me to forge connections with staff members and gain a deeper understanding of the support resources available. There are countless ways to engage with staff, and doing so can vastly enhance your university experience. My recommendation? Take full advantage of the resources and support at your disposal—you’ll be grateful you did.
In summary, this year has taught me that the apprehensions and uncertainties I felt at the start were normal, but not insurmountable. With the backing of friends, faculty, and the broader university community, I’ve realized that I am never truly alone. I’ve also learned how to balance diligent effort with enjoyment, even during tense periods like exams and deadlines.
Looking forward, I feel more assured and eager for what lies ahead. If you’re about to commence your own university adventure, remember that it’s perfectly fine to feel anxious—but also recognize that you will evolve in ways you never expected.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London