Written by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, uncertainty, and a healthy dose of fear. I was on the brink of starting my first year in Materials Science and Engineering at Imperial College London, and the prospect of entering the unknown was intimidating—especially for someone like me, who had always been somewhat shy and withdrawn. Now, reflecting on the past academic year, I recognize a journey filled with personal development, challenges, and numerous unforgettable experiences. So, what insights have I gained, and where do I find myself now?
One of the most significant and daunting challenges I encountered early on was forming friendships. If you’re an incoming student, this may be a concern for you as well. I recall my first day in student housing, just a few days before classes began—I spent the entire day in my room, too anxious to venture out and introduce myself. Fast forward to today, and I can honestly say I’ve made some of the finest friends I’ve ever had. I’ve discovered a second family here at Imperial, and it all commenced with a little conversation with others who were equally new and uncertain.
What did I take away from that? I realized that taking the initial step—even if it’s minor—can be transformative. If you’re feeling unprepared or lacking confidence, that’s perfectly fine. There are numerous ice-breakers and events specifically designed to facilitate connections with others. Most importantly, be authentic. With such a diverse student community, you’re sure to encounter individuals who share your interests and principles.
Another significant adaptation was the academic workload and the complexity of the coursework. There was undoubtedly a leap from A-levels, and the transition from the first term to the second felt even more pronounced. It’s easy to feel inundated or to measure yourself against peers and think you’re lagging behind. However, one of the lessons I found to be the most valuable is that everyone is experiencing similar challenges. If you’re having difficulty comprehending something, there’s a good chance others are too. Don’t hesitate to seek assistance—from your peers, tutors, or lecturers. Learning to reach out and ask for help is one of the most essential skills you can cultivate in your first year.
Speaking of support, I can’t emphasize enough how fantastic the staff in the Materials department are. They genuinely prioritize student welfare and are always receptive to feedback. I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral resources available until later in the academic year, and I wish I had done so earlier. One of the wisest choices I made was to become a year well-being representative. This position allowed me to collaborate closely with the staff and gain a deeper understanding of the support systems available. There are numerous ways to foster connections with your lecturers and tutors, and doing so can significantly enrich your university experience.
Reflecting on my first year, the most important lesson I’ve learned is that those feelings of anxiety—before and during university—are entirely normal and often unwarranted. With the appropriate support from staff and fellow students, you will establish your place. I’ve come to understand that I’m never truly alone, and I’ve learned how to juggle the demands of exams and deadlines while also enjoying student life.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London