Written by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months back, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, uncertainty, and quite a bit of fear as I geared up to embark on my journey as a first-year student in Materials Science and Engineering at Imperial College London. As someone who has always been somewhat introverted, plunging into university life felt intimidating. However, reflecting on the past year, I recognize it’s been a period rich with personal development, challenges, and cherished memories. So, what insights have I gained—and what is my current situation?
One of the most significant and daunting obstacles I encountered at the start was forging friendships. If you are a prospective student, this may be a concern for you as well. I recall spending my entire initial day in student housing secluded in my room, too anxious to venture out and introduce myself. But fast forward to now, and I can assert with confidence that I’ve formed some of the most meaningful friendships of my life—individuals who now feel like family. What shifted? I took a leap and initiated brief conversations with others who were equally anxious. My most important lesson? Take that initial step early on. Even if you’re not entirely prepared, there will be ample ice-breakers and social activities to help you engage. And above all, be genuine. With such a diverse group of students, you’re sure to find those who resonate with your interests and values.
Another significant obstacle was acclimatizing to the academic demands and the intricacies of the course material. The transition from A-levels was substantial, and the jump from the first to second term was even more pronounced. It’s easy to feel inundated or to compare yourself with others and think you’re lagging behind. However, one thing that aided me was the realization that everyone is experiencing similar challenges. If you find a concept difficult, there’s a good chance others are too. Don’t hesitate to seek assistance—be it from peers or faculty. Mastering the art of asking for help is among the most crucial skills you can cultivate in your first year.
On the topic of faculty, I cannot praise the Materials department staff enough. They truly prioritize students’ well-being and success, and they are consistently receptive to feedback and dialogue. I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support offered until later in the academic year, and I wish I had recognized its value sooner. One of the best decisions I made was to become a year well-being representative. This position allowed me to establish rapport with the staff and forge meaningful connections—something I would highly recommend to anyone. There are numerous avenues to engage with faculty, and doing so can significantly enhance your university experience.
All in all, this year has revealed to me that the apprehensions and uncertainties I faced initially were normal—and often unfounded. Thanks to the support from peers and staff, those emotions became easier to handle. I’ve discovered that I’m never truly alone, and that it is entirely feasible to savor university life, even amidst the pressures of exams and deadlines.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London