Written by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Back in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, uncertainty, and a substantial 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 embarking on this new journey felt intimidating. Being someone who had always been rather shy and introverted, plunging into university life seemed like a huge task. Now, ten months later, I can reflect on a year that has been rich in growth, challenges, and memorable experiences. So, what insights have I gained, and where do I stand now?
One of the most significant obstacles I encountered at the outset was the quest for friendship. It’s a common concern among many newcomers, and I was no different. I still recall my first day at the student accommodation—I spent the majority of it in my room, too anxious to meet anyone. But looking ahead to today, I’ve formed some of the closest friendships I’ve ever experienced. These connections have turned into a second family for me. What made the difference? I took small initiatives—starting dialogues, participating in events, and simply being authentic. That’s one of the key lessons I’ve absorbed: just be yourself. With a diverse student community at Imperial, you’re sure to find those who resonate with your interests and values. And if you’re not ready to dive in immediately, that’s perfectly fine too. There are numerous ice-breakers and social events designed to help you ease into it.
Another significant challenge was adapting to the academic demands. The leap from A-levels was substantial, and the transition from the first to the second term was even more intense. At times, it was simple to feel as though I wasn’t keeping pace, particularly when I compared myself to others. However, I quickly understood that I wasn’t alone—many of my fellow students were experiencing the same feelings. That’s when I picked up one of the most crucial lessons of the year: don’t hesitate to seek help. Whether it’s your classmates or educators, there’s always someone ready to assist you. Reaching out can truly make a difference.
On the topic of support, the staff in the Materials department have been remarkable. They genuinely care about our success and well-being, maintaining open channels of communication throughout the year. I didn’t fully utilize the available pastoral support until later in the year, and in retrospect, I wish I had engaged with it earlier. One of the best choices I made was becoming a well-being representative for my year. This position allowed me to connect with faculty members and gain a deeper understanding of how the department supports students. Cultivating these relationships has been profoundly rewarding, and I encourage others to seize similar opportunities.
In summary, this year has shown me that the apprehensions and uncertainties I experienced at the start were completely normal—but not unconquerable. With the backing of friends, faculty, and the broader university community, I’ve learned how to handle stress, tackle challenges, and appreciate the journey. Most importantly, I’ve discovered that I’m never alone in this experience.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London