Written by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Back in October 2022, I was filled with anxiety, uncertainty, and quite a bit of fear. I was set to embark on my first year studying Materials Science and Engineering at Imperial College London. As someone who has always been relatively reserved and introverted, plunging into university life felt daunting. Now, almost a year later, I can reflect on an academic year that has been rich with personal development, challenges, and some memorable moments. So, what have I gained, and where do I stand now?
One of the largest and most daunting challenges I encountered early on was the task of making friends. If you’re an incoming student, this may also be a concern for you—and I completely empathize. On my initial day in student housing, I was so jittery that I stayed in my room all day, too apprehensive to venture out and introduce myself. Fast forward to today, and I can assertively say that I’ve formed some of the best friendships I’ve ever had—people who feel like a second family. What changed? I took a chance and initiated brief conversations with individuals who were just as new and uncertain as I was. That courageous act made all the difference.
If there’s one lesson I’ve learned, it’s that staying true to yourself is the most effective strategy. Imperial is brimming with diverse individuals, and you’re sure to find others who align with your interests and values. And don’t fret if you aren’t prepared to jump in right away—there are numerous ice-breakers and social gatherings set up to assist you in connecting with others.
Another significant adjustment was the academic workload. The transition from A-levels to university-level education was considerable—and the transition from the first to the second term was even more demanding. It’s easy to feel swamped or to compare yourself with others and feel that you may be lagging. But here’s the reality: everyone is navigating this journey collectively. If you’re having difficulty grasping something, it’s likely that others are too. The most crucial skill I cultivated this year was the ability to seek assistance—whether from classmates or academic staff.
Speaking of staff, the support from the Materials department has been remarkable. The lecturers and tutors truly care about our success and welfare. They recognize the challenges we encounter and are always willing to listen to our concerns. I didn’t fully leverage the pastoral support available until later in the year, and I wish I had done so sooner. Early on, I took a step forward and became a year well-being representative, which allowed me to build relationships with staff members—something I have found deeply fulfilling. There are countless avenues to connect with staff, and engaging with them can significantly enhance your university experience.
In summary, this year has shown me that the anxieties and uncertainties I had at the start were completely normal—and that there’s a wealth of support available to assist you in overcoming them. I’ve realized that I’m never truly alone, and that enjoying university life is entirely feasible, even while managing deadlines and exams.
By Guest Blogger
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Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London