Written by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
In October 2022, I was overwhelmed with nerves, uncertainty, and quite a bit of apprehension. I was about to embark on my first year studying Materials Science and Engineering at Imperial College London, and the idea of venturing into something entirely new felt intimidating—especially for someone like me, who has always tended to be on the quieter side. Now, reflecting on the past academic year, I view it as a journey filled with personal growth, challenges, and unforgettable memories. So, what insights have I gained, and where do I stand now?
One of the most significant and daunting hurdles I encountered early on was making friends. If you’re a prospective student, you may be experiencing similar nerves. I recall my first day moving into the student residence—I spent the entire day in my room, too anxious to venture out and introduce myself. But fast forward to now, and I can sincerely say I’ve formed some of the best friendships of my life. These individuals have become like a second family to me. What shifted? I took the initiative to engage in small conversations with others who were just as new and nervous as I was. My recommendation? Take that plunge early. Even if you don’t feel prepared, there are numerous ice-breakers and activities designed to help you connect with others. And above all, be your authentic self. With such a diverse student community, you’re sure to discover individuals who align with your interests and values.
Another significant adjustment was managing the academic workload. The transition from A-levels to university was considerable—and the shift from the first term to the second felt even more profound. It’s easy to feel inundated or to question your capabilities when you observe others studying diligently and seemingly grasping everything. But here’s something that aided me: remembering that everyone is experiencing similar challenges. If you’re grappling with a concept, it’s likely that others are too. Don’t hesitate to reach out for assistance. Learning to seek help—whether from classmates or professors—is one of the most valuable skills you can cultivate in your first year.
Speaking of support, I can’t express enough how wonderful the staff in the Materials department are. They genuinely care about our success and well-being. They understand the pressures we face and are consistently 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. Early on, I took a bold step by serving as a year well-being representative. This role allowed me to forge connections with staff members, which turned out to be incredibly advantageous. There are many opportunities to interact with staff, and doing so can significantly enrich your university journey. My key takeaway? Don’t hesitate to leverage the support systems available to you—they exist for a purpose.
Overall, this year has shown me that the fears and concerns I had—both before and during university—were often baseless. With the appropriate support and mindset, they became manageable. I’ve learned that I’m never truly alone and that enjoying university life is possible even in the midst of the stresses of exams and deadlines.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London