Written by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, uncertainty, and a touch of fear about what lay ahead. I had just embarked on my journey as a Materials Science and Engineering student at Imperial, and venturing into the unknown was not something my previously timid and reserved self was accustomed to. Now, reflecting on the past academic year, I perceive a path filled with personal development, obstacles, and a great deal of enjoyment. So, what insights have I gained, and what is my current situation?
One of the most daunting and significant challenges I encountered early on was forming friendships. If you are a prospective student, this may be one of your greatest concerns as well. I recall moving into my accommodation a few days before the term began and spending the entirety of my first day concealed in my room, too anxious to venture out and introduce myself. Fast forward to now, and I can proudly say I’ve formed some of the most incredible friendships I’ve ever had—friends who feel like family. All it required was a little small talk with individuals who were just as new and uncertain as I was. My key takeaway? Don’t shy away from taking that initial step. Even if you don’t feel prepared, there will be plenty of ice-breakers and events to assist you in connecting with others. And most importantly, stay true to yourself. Imperial is a melting pot of diverse individuals—you’re bound to find your tribe.
Another crucial adjustment was managing the academic workload and the complexity of the material. I noticed a considerable leap from A-levels, and an even sharper one from the first term to the second. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed or to question your abilities when observing others studying or seemingly grasping concepts more swiftly than you. However, one thing that guided me through was the realization that everyone shares similar challenges. If you’re struggling to comprehend something, it’s likely that others are too. So don’t hesitate—seek assistance. This is perhaps the most vital skill to cultivate in your first year. Reach out to your classmates, and don’t hesitate to approach the faculty.
On the topic of faculty, the Materials department is populated with supportive and approachable individuals. They genuinely want you to thrive and are well-aware of the hurdles students encounter. They foster open communication throughout the year to ensure our concerns are acknowledged. I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support until later in the year, and I wish I had taken advantage of it sooner. One bold step I took early on was becoming a year well-being representative. This position allowed me to connect with the faculty more closely, which proved to be tremendously beneficial. There are numerous ways to forge relationships with staff, and doing so can significantly enrich your university experience. My recommendation? Fully leverage the available support systems—you can never have too much assistance.
In summary, this year has shown me that the anxiety and uncertainties I experienced before entering university were entirely normal, though often unwarranted. With the backing of peers and staff, those emotions can be managed and surmounted. I’ve come to realize that I’m never truly alone, and that it’s entirely possible to relish university life—even amidst the pressures of exams and deadlines.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London