Written by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with nerves, uncertainty, and a touch of fear as I geared up to start my first year in Materials Science and Engineering at Imperial College London. As someone who has always been somewhat introverted, plunging into university life seemed daunting. However, reflecting on the year now, I recognize a journey marked by personal development, challenges, and unforgettable experiences. So, what insights have I gained, and where do I stand now?
One of the most significant and daunting obstacles I encountered early on was forming friendships. If you’re an incoming student, this might be a concern for you as well. I recall my first day in student housing, where I found myself hiding in my room, too anxious to introduce myself to anyone. Fast forward to today, and I can proudly affirm that I’ve cultivated some of the strongest friendships of my life. These bonds have come to feel like a second family. What changed? It began with brief conversations and the bravery to step outside my comfort zone. My suggestion: take that leap early on. Even if you’re feeling unprepared, there are numerous icebreakers and social gatherings tailored to help you connect with others. And most crucially, be yourself—Imperial is home to a diverse group of individuals, and you’re sure to find your niche.
Another significant challenge was adapting to the academic demands and the intricacy of the material. The transition from A-levels to university was substantial, and the shift from the first term to the second was even more pronounced. It’s easy to sense that you might be lagging behind when observing others who are studying or understanding concepts with greater ease. However, one of the most valuable lessons I learned is that you’re not alone—everyone is facing similar challenges. If you find yourself struggling, chances are others are too. Don’t hesitate to seek assistance. Whether from classmates or lecturers, reaching out is an essential skill to cultivate in your first year.
On the topic of support, the staff in the Materials department are outstanding. They genuinely care about our achievements and are always receptive to feedback and communication. Although I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support until further into the year, I wish I had accessed it earlier. At the beginning, I took the initiative to become a year well-being representative. This position allowed me to forge connections with staff members, which proved to be immensely beneficial. There are numerous avenues to engage with staff, and taking advantage of these can significantly enrich your university experience. A key takeaway from this is to fully utilize the support available to you—you can never have too much assistance.
In summary, this year has taught me that the anxiety I experienced before and during university was often unwarranted. Thanks to the support from peers and staff, those feelings became manageable. I’ve come to realize that I’m never truly alone, and I’ve learned how to balance enjoyment with the stresses of exams and deadlines.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London