Written by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I was filled with apprehension, uncertainty, and a considerable amount of fear about what was ahead. I was on the brink of commencing my first year in Materials Science and Engineering at Imperial College London. As someone who has typically been rather shy and introverted, embarking on such a significant life transition felt daunting. However, now that I reflect on the past academic year, I can assertively claim it has been a period of development, challenge, and immense enjoyment. So, what insights have I gained, and where do I stand now?
One of the most significant and daunting hurdles I encountered initially was forming friendships. If you’re a prospective student, this may be a concern for you as well. I recall my first day moving into student accommodation—I spent the entire day in my room, too anxious to go out and introduce myself. But fast forward to now, and I’ve forged some of the most meaningful friendships I’ve ever had. I’ve discovered a second family here at Imperial, and it all commenced with a bit of casual conversation and stepping outside my comfort zone. What I’ve realized is that taking that first leap is well worth it. Even if you’re not brimming with confidence right away, there are numerous ice-breaker events and chances to meet others in similar situations. Most importantly, just be yourself—Imperial is abundant with diverse individuals, and you are sure to find your group.
Another significant transition was the academic workload and the complexity of the course material. There was undeniably a noticeable increase from A-levels, and the shift from the first to the second term was even more pronounced. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed or to compare yourself to others who appear to be managing things better. But one thing that supported me was the realization that everyone is navigating the same transition. If you’re finding something difficult to grasp, it’s likely that others are too. The key is to seek assistance—whether from your peers or the teaching staff. Learning to reach out is one of the most crucial skills you can cultivate in your first year.
Speaking of the staff, I can’t express enough positive things about the Materials department. The lecturers and support staff genuinely want you to thrive. They comprehend the challenges students encounter and are consistently open to feedback and dialogue. I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support available until later in the year, and I regret not doing so sooner. One step I did take early on was becoming a year well-being representative. This position allowed me to connect with the staff more effectively, which proved to be extremely beneficial. There are numerous ways to engage with staff, and doing so can significantly enrich your university experience. My main takeaway here? Don’t hesitate to use the support that’s available—you can never have too much.
In summary, this year has shown me that the nerves and uncertainties I felt at the beginning were normal—and often unwarranted. With the backing of friends, staff, and the broader university community, I’ve realized that I’m never alone. I’ve also learned how to harmonize enjoyment with the unavoidable pressures of exams and deadlines.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London