Written by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Back in October 2022, ten months ago, I was overwhelmed with 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. As someone who has always been somewhat shy and reserved, the thought of diving into university life felt incredibly daunting. However, looking back now, I reflect on a year brimming with growth, challenges, and unforgettable memories. So, what insights have I gained, and where do I stand now?
One of the largest and most intimidating hurdles I encountered at the outset was forming friendships. For many newcomers, this can be one of the most intimidating parts of initiating university life. I vividly remember spending my entire first day cooped up in my room, too anxious to step out and meet anyone. But fast forward to today, and I can say with confidence that I’ve forged some of the best friendships I’ve ever had—people who feel like an extended family. What shifted? I took the initiative and engaged in small conversations with others who were just as new and uncertain as I was. If there’s a lesson I’ve learned, it’s that taking that initial step—no matter how minor—can make a significant impact. And if you aren’t ready right away, that’s perfectly fine. There are countless events and ice-breakers designed to facilitate connections with others. Most importantly, be genuine. With such a varied student body, you’re sure to encounter individuals who share your interests and values.
Another substantial change was adapting to the academic workload. The transition from A-levels to university study was considerable, and the shift from the first to the second term was even more demanding. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed or question your abilities when you observe others putting in effort and seemingly grasping everything. But the reality is this: everyone is in the same situation. If you’re having difficulty with a concept, chances are that others are as well. Don’t hesitate to seek assistance—whether from peers or faculty. Learning to seek support is one of the most important skills you can cultivate in your first year.
Speaking of support, the staff in the Materials department are exceptional. They genuinely care about the well-being and success of students and maintain accessible communication channels throughout the year. Although I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support until later in the year, I wish I had taken advantage of it sooner. Early in my journey, I took a bold step and became a year well-being representative, which allowed me to form relationships with staff and gain a better understanding of the support systems available. Getting to know your lecturers and tutors can be highly advantageous, and there are many ways to facilitate this. My main takeaway here? Utilize the resources available—there’s no such thing as too much support.
All in all, this year has shown me that the anxiety I experienced before and during university was frequently misplaced. With the extensive support available from both staff and fellow students, I’ve learned that I am never truly alone. I’ve also figured out how to balance the stresses of exams and deadlines with moments of joy and connection.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London