Written by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, back in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with nerves, uncertainty, and quite a bit of fear regarding what lay ahead. I was on the brink of starting my first year in Materials Science and Engineering at Imperial College London. As a person who has always been somewhat shy and reserved, embracing such a significant life transition felt rather daunting. Now, reflecting on the past academic year, I can recognize how much I’ve developed—both personally and academically. It’s been a year brimming with challenges, growth, and a great deal of enjoyment. So, what have I really absorbed, and where do I stand now?
One of the most significant and daunting obstacles at the outset was forming friendships. If you’re considering becoming a student, this might be a concern for you as well. I recall my first day in student accommodation, where I spent time in my room, too anxious to venture out and introduce myself. Fast forward to the present, and I can say with confidence that I’ve formed some incredible friendships—people who truly feel like a second family. All it required was a little small talk with others who were equally new and uncertain. The main takeaway here? Make that first move early. Even if you don’t feel prepared, there are plenty of ice-breaker events and social chances to help you connect. And most importantly, just be yourself. Imperial is home to a wide variety of individuals, and you’re certain to find your niche.
Another hurdle I encountered was adapting to the academic workload and its demanding nature. The transition from A-levels to university was stark—and the shift from first to second term was even more intense. It’s easy to feel as though you’re lagging when you observe others hitting the books hard. However, one thing that aided me was recalling that everyone is facing the same situation. If you’re finding something tough to grasp, chances are your peers are too. Don’t hesitate to seek assistance—whether from fellow students or teaching staff. Learning to reach out for help is likely one of the most valuable skills you can cultivate in your first year.
On the topic of staff, the backing from the Materials department has been remarkable. The lecturers and staff genuinely wish to see students succeed, and they comprehend the hardships we encounter. They are approachable, understanding, and consistently receptive to feedback. I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support until later in the year, and I regret not doing so earlier. At first, I took the plunge and became a year well-being representative, which allowed me to forge connections with staff members. That relationship turned out to be invaluable. There are countless ways to familiarize yourself with your lecturers and tutors, and doing so can greatly enrich your university journey. My suggestion? Make the most of the support available—you can never have enough.
In summary, this year has taught me that those anxious thoughts, whether prior to starting or during university, are frequently baseless and can be alleviated through the available support systems. I’ve realized that I’m never genuinely alone, and that it’s entirely possible to find joy even amidst the stresses of exams and deadlines.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London