Written by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
In October 2022, I was enveloped in a mix of apprehension, uncertainty, and a healthy helping of fear. I was about to embark on my first year in Materials Science and Engineering at Imperial College London, and as someone who has always been somewhat introverted, leaping into this new chapter felt daunting. Fast forward nearly a year, and I can reflect on a journey filled with personal growth, challenges, and memorable experiences. So, what insights have I gained, and what is my situation now?
One of the most significant and daunting hurdles I encountered early on was forming friendships. If you’re an incoming student, this may be a concern for you as well. I distinctly remember spending my whole first day confined to my room, too nervous to venture out and meet anyone. However, looking at how things are today, I can genuinely say that I’ve developed some of the most meaningful friendships—people who feel like family. What shifted? It all began with simple conversations and shared experiences. I discovered that taking that initial step, no matter how uncomfortable it may feel, is worthwhile. And if you’re not ready instantly, that’s perfectly fine too. There are numerous ice-breakers and events created to facilitate connections with others. Most importantly, I learned that being authentic is the best way to find your community—Imperial is home to an array of diverse students, and you’re certain to meet those who resonate with your interests and values.
Another significant adjustment was the academic demands. The transition from A-levels was substantial, and the leap from the first to the second term was even more pronounced. It’s easy to feel as though you’re falling behind or that everyone else has it all figured out. But here’s the reality: everyone is experiencing the same challenges. If you’re grappling with a concept, others likely are too. The most essential lesson I absorbed was the importance of seeking help—whether from peers or instructors. Asking for assistance is not a sign of weakness; it’s an astute and necessary aspect of learning.
Speaking of instructors, the support from the Materials department has been phenomenal. The lecturers and tutors truly care about our success and well-being. They grasp the hurdles we encounter and are consistently receptive to feedback and dialogue. I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support services until later in the year, and I wish I had taken advantage of them sooner. One of the best decisions I made was becoming a well-being representative for my cohort. This position enabled me to forge connections with staff and gain a clearer understanding of the available resources. If you get the opportunity to engage in something like this, I wholeheartedly recommend it. The support is there—you just need to seize it.
In summary, this past year has taught me that the fears and uncertainties I experienced at the start were normal but often unfounded. With the appropriate support and mindset, university can be a remarkable place for both personal and academic development. I’ve come to realize that I’m never truly alone, and even during high-pressure periods such as exams and deadlines, it’s possible to discover joy and maintain balance.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London