Written by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, uncertainty, and a significant amount of fear. I was on the brink of starting my first year in Materials Science and Engineering at Imperial College London. Having always been somewhat reserved and introverted, stepping into the unknown felt daunting. Now, reflecting on my first academic year, I recognize a path marked by growth, obstacles, and remarkable experiences. So, what insights have I gained, and what is my current standing?
One of the most significant and daunting hurdles I encountered early on was forming friendships. If you’re an incoming student, this may also be a concern for you. I vividly remember my initial day in student housing — I was so apprehensive that I remained in my room throughout the entire day, too anxious to venture out and meet others. Fast forward to now, and I can sincerely say I’ve established some of the closest friendships I’ve ever known. I’ve discovered a second family here at Imperial, both in my course and in broader circles. All it took was a little casual conversation with fellow newcomers who shared my uncertainties.
What have I gleaned from this experience? That taking that first step — even if it’s merely saying hello — is worthwhile. And if you aren’t quite ready for that, it’s perfectly fine. There are numerous ice-breaking events and social opportunities designed to help you settle in. Most importantly, I realized that being your authentic self is the best approach. With such a diverse student community, you’re sure to find individuals with whom you resonate.
Another significant adaptation was the academic demands. The transition from A-levels to university-level coursework was considerable — and the shift from the first term to the second felt even more pronounced. It’s easy to become overwhelmed or to question your capabilities when you observe others around you seemingly excelling. However, one thing that supported me was the reminder that everyone is experiencing similar challenges. If you’re finding something difficult to grasp, it’s likely that others are too. So don’t hesitate to seek assistance. That’s perhaps the most vital lesson I’ve learned this year — reach out to fellow students and your lecturers. You aren’t expected to have all the answers by yourself.
This leads me to another crucial point: the assistance from the Materials department is outstanding. The staff genuinely care about your success and well-being. They recognize the hurdles students face and keep lines of communication open throughout the year. I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support until later in the academic year, and I regret not doing so sooner.
One step I did take early in the year was becoming a Year Wellbeing Representative. This position allowed me to collaborate closely with staff and become better acquainted with them — an experience I found tremendously beneficial. There are numerous avenues to connect with faculty, and doing so can significantly enrich your university journey. My takeaway? Utilize the support systems available to you. There’s no such thing as too much assistance.
In summary, this year has shown me that the apprehensions and doubts I experienced — both before my arrival and throughout the year — were normal and manageable. With the appropriate support and mindset, I learned that I’m never truly alone. And perhaps most crucially, I discovered how to balance diligent work with enjoyment, even during stressful periods like exams and deadlines.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London