Written by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with nerves, uncertainty, and quite a bit of fear as I got ready to embark on my journey as a first-year student in Materials Science and Engineering at Imperial College London. Being someone who has always been somewhat introverted and shy, plunging into university life seemed daunting. However, reflecting on the past year, I recognize it was filled with personal development, challenges, and remarkable experiences. So, what have I learned—and what is my current situation?
One of the most significant and intimidating hurdles I encountered early on was forming friendships. If you’re an incoming student, this might be among your primary worries too. I recall spending my entire initial day in student housing tucked away in my room, too nervous to go out and socialize. Fast forward to now, and I can proudly state that I’ve made some of the finest friends I’ve ever had—individuals who feel like a second family. How did that come about? It all began with a little small talk and the realization that everyone else was equally eager to connect. My key takeaway: take that initial leap. Even if you don’t feel prepared, there are plenty of ice-breakers and events created to help you meet others. And most importantly, be yourself. With such a varied student community, you are sure to find people who share your interests and values.
Another significant change was adapting to the academic workload and its intensity. The transition from A-levels to university was substantial—and the shift from the first to the second term was even more pronounced. It’s easy to feel inundated or to question your abilities when witnessing others studying fervently. But here’s what supported me: remembering that everyone is experiencing similar challenges. If you’re finding something tough to grasp, chances are others are too. Don’t shy away from asking for help—whether from your classmates or from the faculty. In fact, learning to seek assistance might be the most crucial skill you cultivate in your first year.
On the topic of faculty, the support from the Materials department has been outstanding. The lecturers and support staff genuinely wish for students to thrive, and they comprehend the obstacles we encounter. They’re approachable, compassionate, and maintain open lines of communication throughout the year. I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support available until later in the academic year, and I wish I had done it sooner. One of the best choices I made was becoming a well-being representative for my cohort. This position allowed me to forge relationships with staff members, which turned out to be incredibly beneficial. There are various methods to connect with faculty, and doing so can significantly enhance your university experience. My suggestion? Take full advantage of the support that’s offered—you can never have too much.
In summary, this past year has illustrated to me that the anxiety I experienced before and at the beginning of university was common, but often unwarranted. With the plethora of support systems available—from faculty to fellow students—there’s always someone to reach out to. I’ve discovered that I’m never truly alone, and it’s entirely feasible to enjoy university life even while managing exams and deadlines.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London