Written by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I was overcome with nerves, uncertainty, and quite a bit of fear. I was on the verge of commencing my journey as a first-year student in the Materials Science and Engineering MEng program at Imperial College London. As someone who had always been rather shy and introverted, plunging into university life felt like a lot to handle. However, reflecting on the past year, I recognize a time filled with personal development, challenges, and unforgettable moments. So, what insights have I gained, and where do I stand now?
One of the most daunting challenges I encountered at the beginning was forming friendships. If you’re a prospective student, this could be a source of anxiety for you as well. I recall spending my first day in student housing tucked away in my room, too anxious to venture out and introduce myself. Fast forward to today, and I can sincerely say I’ve made some of the most wonderful friends I’ve ever known. These relationships have become akin to a second family. What was the turning point? It all began with casual chats and realizing that everyone else was feeling just as uncertain. My key takeaway? Take the plunge early. Even if you’re not feeling prepared, there will be ample ice-breakers and social gatherings to help foster connections. And above all—just be yourself. With such a diverse group of students, you’re sure to find individuals who resonate with your interests and values.
Another significant shift was adjusting to the academic demands and the complexity of the material. The change from A-levels to university was substantial, and the transition from the first to the second term was even more challenging. It’s easy to feel like you’re lagging behind when you see others studying diligently or grasping concepts more swiftly than you. But here’s what aided me: remembering that everyone faces difficulties at some stage. If you’re perplexed or struggling, it’s likely that others are too. Don’t hesitate to seek assistance—whether it’s from your peers or your instructors. Learning to request help is perhaps the most vital skill I developed during my initial year.
Speaking of assistance, the faculty in the Materials department are exceptional. They truly prioritize student wellbeing and are consistently receptive to feedback and communication. Although I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support until later in the year, I wish I had reached out earlier. One of the best decisions I made was becoming a wellbeing representative for my cohort. 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 connect with faculty, and doing so can significantly enrich your university experience. My recommendation? Utilize every available support resource—you can never have too much help.
In summary, this past year has shown me that the fears and anxieties I harbored prior to starting university were often unfounded. With the right support from peers and staff, those feelings became manageable. I’ve learned that I’m never truly isolated, and it’s possible to relish university life even while balancing the pressures of exams and deadlines.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London