Written by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, uncertainty, and a fair amount of fear. I was on the verge of starting my first year in Materials Science and Engineering at Imperial College London, and the prospect of plunging into such a significant transition felt intimidating—particularly for someone like me, who had always leaned toward the quieter, more reserved side. Now, reflecting on the past academic year, I recognize a journey brimming with personal development, hurdles, and countless unforgettable moments. So, what insights have I gained, and what is my current situation?
One of the most formidable and frightening obstacles I encountered early on was forming friendships. If you’re an incoming student reading this, you may be experiencing similar feelings of anxiety. I recall my initial day moving into student housing—before the term had even commenced, I spent the whole day in my room, too anxious to venture out and introduce myself. Fast forward to now, and I can sincerely say I’ve formed some of the most cherished friendships I’ve ever had. The individuals I’ve connected with through my program and around campus have become akin to a second family. All it took was a touch of small talk and the bravery to step outside my comfort zone.
The essential lesson? Take that plunge early. Even if you don’t feel prepared, there are numerous ice-breakers and events structured to facilitate meeting new people. And above all, be authentic. With such a varied student community, you’re bound to encounter others who align with your interests and principles.
Academically, transitioning from A-levels to university represented another significant shift. The volume of work and the intricacy of the content undoubtedly increased, particularly between the first and second terms. It’s easy to become overwhelmed or to measure yourself against others who seem to be managing better. However, one thing that supported me was the realization that everyone is facing similar challenges. If you’re having difficulty grasping a concept, there’s a good chance others are too. Don’t hesitate to seek assistance—whether from classmates or faculty. Learning to ask for help is perhaps one of the most crucial skills you can cultivate in your first year.
Speaking of faculty, I can’t praise the teaching team in the Materials department enough. They genuinely care about our achievements and well-being, and they’re always receptive to feedback and open dialogue. I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support offered until later in the academic year, and I wish I had taken advantage of it sooner. One of the best choices I made was becoming a well-being representative for my year. It provided me the chance to form connections with staff and gain a clearer understanding of the available support systems. There are countless opportunities to engage and connect with those who are here to assist you—don’t hesitate to seize them.
In summary, this year has shown me that the apprehension and uncertainties I felt at the outset were natural—but also mostly unfounded. With the backing of friends, staff, and the broader university community, I’ve learned that I am never truly alone. I’ve also discovered how to balance academic demands with enjoyment and how to evolve through the trials of university life.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London