Written by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I was enveloped in anxiety, doubt, and a significant amount of fear. I was on the verge of starting my first year in Materials Science and Engineering at Imperial College London, and as someone who had always been introverted and quiet, stepping into an entirely new environment felt daunting. Now, as I look back on the past academic year, I recognize a journey rich with growth, obstacles, and remarkable experiences. So, what insights have I gained, and what is my current status?
One of the most challenging and intimidating obstacles I encountered early on was forming friendships. If you’re a future student, this may be one of your top concerns as well. I recall spending my initial day in student housing tucked away in my room, too apprehensive to venture out and introduce myself. But fast forward to the present, and I can proudly say I’ve formed some of the best friendships I’ve ever known—friends who feel like a second family. What transformed? I took incremental steps, sparked conversations, and connected with others who were just as new and uncertain as I was. The essential lesson here: take that initiative early. Even if you don’t feel prepared, there are plenty of ice-breakers and social gatherings designed to help you interact with others. Above all, be authentic. With such a varied student population, you’re sure to meet people who resonate with your interests and values.
Another significant obstacle was acclimating to the academic workload. The transition from A-levels to university-level material was substantial—and the shift from the first to the second term was even more drastic. It’s easy to feel as though you’re lagging behind when you observe others studying diligently or grasping concepts more quickly than you. However, one realization that assisted me was understanding that everyone is experiencing similar challenges. If you’re grappling with a subject, chances are others are as well. Don’t hesitate to seek assistance—whether from classmates or faculty. Learning to ask for help is perhaps the most valuable skill I acquired in my first year.
Speaking of faculty, the support from the Materials department has been outstanding. The lecturers and tutors sincerely care about our success and well-being. They are aware of the pressures we deal with and are always receptive to feedback and communication. I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support until later in the year, and I wish I had done so sooner. One of the best choices I made was becoming a Year Wellbeing Representative. This position allowed me to collaborate closely with staff and gain a deeper understanding of the support systems available. Getting to know your lecturers and tutors can be a significant advantage—and there are numerous ways to cultivate those relationships. My insight? Take full advantage of the support that’s at your disposal. You can never receive too much assistance.
In summary, this year has revealed to me that the anxious sentiments I harbored before and during university were frequently unfounded. With the right support from staff and peers, those nerves can be alleviated. I’ve realized that I’m never truly isolated, and that it’s feasible to relish university life—even amid the pressures of exams and deadlines.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London