Written by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
In October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, doubt, and a significant amount of fear while getting ready to embark on my first year in Materials Science and Engineering at Imperial College London. As an individual who had always been somewhat introverted and reserved, plunging into such a new and unfamiliar setting felt intimidating. Now, ten months later, I can reflect on a year filled with personal growth, obstacles, and remarkable experiences. So, what insights have I gained, and what is my current status?
One of the primary challenges I encountered early on was forming friendships. For numerous newcomers, this aspect can be one of the most daunting parts of commencing university. I recall spending my whole first day confined to my accommodation room, too anxious to venture out and introduce myself. However, fast forwarding to today, I can proudly say that I’ve developed some of the closest friendships of my life—individuals who feel like an extended family. What made a difference? Starting small—engaging in conversations with others who were equally new and unsure. My key takeaway? Take that initial leap. Even if you don’t feel prepared, numerous ice-breakers and social events exist to help you connect. And above all, be authentic. With such a varied student population, you will undoubtedly find individuals who resonate with your interests and values.
Academically, the shift from A-levels to university-level coursework was another significant obstacle. The workload escalated considerably, and the transition from the first to the second term was particularly striking. It’s easy to feel daunted or to measure yourself against peers who seem to be coping better. Yet, one of the most crucial lessons I learned was that everyone is experiencing similar challenges. If you’re finding something difficult to understand, there’s a good chance others are too. Don’t hesitate to seek assistance—whether it’s from fellow students or faculty members. Learning to reach out is one of the most beneficial skills you can cultivate in your first year.
Speaking of faculty, I can’t emphasize enough how supportive the Materials department has been. The instructors and support personnel genuinely care about our progress and well-being. They recognize the obstacles students encounter and are consistently receptive to input. I didn’t fully utilize the available pastoral support until later in the year, and I wish I had taken advantage of it earlier. Early on, I took a bold step and became a year well-being representative. This position allowed me to collaborate closely with staff and gain a deeper understanding of the resources accessible to students. Developing those connections has been immensely fulfilling, and I would encourage anyone to leverage similar opportunities.
In summary, this year has shown me that the apprehension I experienced before beginning university—and even throughout it—was normal but often unjustified. With the appropriate support and attitude, those trepidations can be tackled. I’ve discovered that I’m never truly isolated, and that it’s possible to relish university life even while balancing deadlines and examinations.
By Guest Blogger
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Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London