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 apprehension. I was on the verge of starting my journey as a first-year student in the Materials Science and Engineering MEng program at Imperial College London. As someone who has always been quite reserved, plunging into university life felt daunting. However, reflecting on the academic year that has passed, I recognize it as a period rich in personal development, challenges, and numerous unforgettable experiences. So, what insights have I gained, and where do I stand now?
One of the most significant and intimidating obstacles I encountered at the start was forming friendships. If you’re an incoming student, this may also be one of your greatest worries. I recall spending my entire first day secluded in my accommodation room, too anxious to venture out and introduce myself. But now, looking back, I can proudly say I’ve built some of the best friendships I’ve ever known—individuals who feel like an extended family. What made the difference? It all began with brief conversations and the realization that everyone else was experiencing similar feelings. My key takeaway? Don’t shy away from taking that initial step. Even if you’re feeling unprepared, there are plenty of ice-breakers and activities specifically designed to help you connect with others. And most importantly, stay true to yourself. With such a diverse student community, you’re sure to find people you resonate with.
Another significant transition was the academic workload and the complexity of the course material. The shift 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 inundated or question your capabilities when witnessing others studying or mastering concepts more rapidly than you. But here’s what aided me: remembering that everyone experiences struggles at some stage. If you’re feeling lost, it’s likely others are too. So don’t hesitate to reach out for assistance. This may be the most crucial skill to cultivate in your first year—seeking support from peers and faculty when needed.
Speaking of support, I cannot praise the staff in the Materials department enough. They truly care about students’ success and well-being. They understand the challenges we encounter and are always willing to communicate. I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support available until later in the year, and I regret not taking advantage of it sooner. One proactive step I did take early on was becoming a Year Wellbeing Representative. This role allowed me to connect with staff members and gain a better understanding of the support systems available. There are countless ways to foster relationships with staff, and doing so can be immensely beneficial. My recommendation? Take full advantage of every resource at your disposal—there’s no such thing as excessive support.
Overall, this year has revealed to me that the fears and apprehensions I harbored—both prior to and during university—were often without basis. With appropriate help from staff and fellow students, those anxieties became manageable. I’ve learned that I’m never truly on my own, and I’ve figured out how to balance academic pressures with enjoyment and self-care.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London