Written by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
In October 2022, I was overwhelmed with nerves, uncertainty, and quite a bit of apprehension. I was about to embark on my first year of studying Materials Science and Engineering at Imperial College London, and entering the unknown felt daunting for someone who had always been a bit introverted. Now, as I look back on the past academic year, I see a path filled with personal development, challenges, and many unforgettable moments. So, what insights have I gained, and what is my current situation?
One of the most significant and daunting obstacles I encountered early on was forging friendships. If you’re an incoming student, this might be a concern for you as well. I recall spending my first day in student housing tucked away in my room, too anxious to introduce myself to anyone. Fast forward to now, and I can proudly say I’ve formed some of the closest friendships I’ve ever experienced—individuals who feel like family. What shifted? I took gradual steps, like initiating conversations with others who were equally new and uncertain. The essential lesson? Don’t hesitate to step outside your comfort zone. You don’t have to have everything sorted out from day one—there are numerous ice-breakers and social gatherings designed to help you engage with others. Most importantly, just be genuine. With such a varied student community, you’re sure to discover individuals who resonate with your interests and values.
Another major adjustment was the academic demands and the level of challenge. The leap from A-levels was apparent, and the shift from the first term to the second felt even more pronounced. It’s easy to feel insecure when you observe others studying diligently and quickly grasping concepts. But here’s what aided me: reminding myself that we are all navigating through the same experience. If you’re having difficulty understanding a topic, it’s likely that others are as well. Don’t shy away from seeking assistance—whether from classmates or faculty. Cultivating the ability to ask for help is one of the most valuable skills you can acquire in your first year.
Speaking of faculty, I cannot emphasize enough how remarkable the teaching and support team within the Materials department is. They genuinely care about our achievements and are always receptive to feedback. They recognize the hurdles students encounter and actively provide support. I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support services until later in the year, and I regret not doing so sooner. At the start, I took the initiative and became a year well-being representative, which allowed me to collaborate closely with staff and gain a better understanding of the support systems available. Establishing connections with staff is immensely advantageous, and there are numerous avenues to achieve this—don’t overlook that chance.
In summary, this year has shown me that the anxiety I felt prior to and during university was often unwarranted. With the backing of peers and staff, those apprehensions became manageable. I’ve realized that I’m never truly alone, and that it’s entirely possible to relish university life—even amidst the pressures of exams and deadlines.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London