Written by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months back, in October 2022, I was beset by nerves, uncertainty, and a fair amount of fear. I was about to embark on my first year of studying Materials Science and Engineering at Imperial College London, and the prospect of venturing into something entirely new and unfamiliar was intimidating—especially for someone like me, who has always been somewhat shy and reserved. Now, reflecting on the past academic year, I see a path filled with personal development, challenges, and unforgettable moments. So, what have I discovered, and where do I stand now?
One of the most significant and daunting challenges I encountered early on was forming friendships. If you’re a potential student reading this, you might be experiencing the same apprehension. I recall my first day in student housing, just before term commenced—I spent the whole day in my room, too anxious to venture outside and introduce myself. But fast forward to today, and I can genuinely say I’ve forged some of the best friendships I’ve ever had. I’ve found a second family here at Imperial, and it all began with a few straightforward conversations with individuals who were just as hesitant as I was. The essential lesson? Take that initial step. Even if you’re not feeling prepared, there will be ample opportunities—icebreakers, events, and shared experiences—that will aid you in connecting with others. And above all, be yourself. With such a varied student body, you’re sure to encounter individuals who resonate with your interests and values.
Another significant challenge was adapting to the academic demands and the complexity of the course material. The transition from A-levels to university-level study was substantial, and the shift from the first to the second term felt even more intense. It’s easy to feel inundated or to compare yourself to peers and sense that you’re lagging. But one thing that helped me was recalling that everyone is navigating the same scenario. If you’re having trouble grasping a concept, it’s likely that others are too. Don’t hesitate to seek help—whether from your classmates or from faculty. Learning to ask for assistance is perhaps the most valuable skill I acquired in my first year.
Talking about staff, I can’t express enough positive remarks about the teaching and support team in the Materials department. They truly care about student success and are always willing to listen to our concerns. They recognize the challenges we encounter and are continually working to assist us. I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support available until later in the year, and I wish I had done so sooner. Early on, I took a bold step by becoming a year well-being representative, which allowed me to connect with staff members more personally. Cultivating those relationships has been incredibly fulfilling, and I strongly encourage getting involved in any capacity you can. The support exists—take advantage of it!
In summary, this year has shown me that the anxiety I felt at the outset was natural, but not insurmountable. With the backing of peers, staff, and the broader university community, I’ve discovered that I’m never really alone. I’ve also learned to juggle the pressures of academic life with fun and enjoyment. University is a venue for growth, and while it presents its challenges, it also provides countless opportunities to flourish.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London