Written by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
In October 2022, I was overwhelmed with nerves, uncertainty, and quite a bit of fear as I got ready to start my first year in Materials Science and Engineering at Imperial College London. As someone who has always been a bit shy and introverted, plunging into university life seemed like a daunting challenge. Now, looking back over the past ten months, I realize this year has been brimming with personal development, obstacles, and memorable experiences. So, what insights have I gained, and where do I stand now?
One of the most formidable and intimidating challenges I encountered early on was making new friends. If you’re a future student, you might be feeling the same anxiety. I can vividly recall my first day in student housing—I was so nervous that I spent the entire day in my room, far too anxious to introduce myself to anyone. But fast forward to now, and I can genuinely say I’ve formed some of the best friendships I’ve ever had. These connections have become like a second family to me while at Imperial. What was beneficial? Simply initiating brief conversations with others who were also new and uncertain. The crucial lesson? Take that initial step. Even if you’re not feeling prepared, there are numerous social gatherings and ice-breakers designed to help you connect. Most importantly, be true to yourself. With such a diverse student population, you’re sure to encounter individuals who resonate with your interests and values.
Another hurdle was adapting to the academic demands and the level of complexity. There’s definitely a clear leap from A-levels, and the shift from the first term to the second can feel even more overwhelming. It’s easy to fall into the trap of comparing yourself to others and feeling as though you’re lagging behind. However, one important insight that helped me was recognizing that everyone is experiencing similar feelings. If you’re having difficulty grasping a concept, it’s likely others are as well. Don’t hesitate to seek help—whether it’s from your peers or your instructors. Learning to request assistance is one of the most valuable abilities you can cultivate in your first year.
On the topic of support, the staff in the Materials department are truly exceptional. They genuinely prioritize student well-being and are always receptive to feedback. I didn’t fully capitalize on the pastoral support available until later in the year, and I wish I had taken advantage of it sooner. Early on, I took a bold step and became a wellness representative for my cohort. This experience allowed me to forge connections with staff members, which turned out to be incredibly advantageous. There are numerous avenues to familiarize yourself with your lecturers and tutors, and doing so can significantly enrich your university journey. My most important takeaway? Utilize the support that’s available—you can never receive too much assistance.
In essence, this year has demonstrated to me that the anxiety I felt prior to and during university was often unfounded. With the appropriate support and mindset, those fears can be surmounted. I’ve discovered that I’m never truly on my own, and that it’s entirely feasible 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