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Written by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, fear, and doubt as I geared up to embark on my journey as a first-year student in Materials Science and Engineering at Imperial College London. Immersing myself in this new experience was entirely out of my comfort zone. Now, reflecting on the past year, I recognize it as a time of substantial growth, challenges, and memorable experiences. So, what lessons have I gained, and what is my current status?
One of the initial—and most daunting—challenges I encountered was forming friendships. If you’re an incoming student, this may be something that concerns you as well. On my first day in student housing, just prior to the start of the term, I spent the entire day sequestered in my room, too apprehensive to venture out and introduce myself. Fast forward to today, and I can proudly assert that I’ve forged some of the most meaningful friendships of my life, both within my program and across the university. It turns out, all it required was a little bit of small talk with others who were just as anxious as I was.
The foremost lesson? Take that initial plunge. Even if you don’t feel prepared, there will be numerous ice-breakers and events designed to facilitate interaction. And above all, remain true to yourself. With such a varied student body, you’re sure to encounter individuals who share your interests and values.
Another significant obstacle was adapting to the academic demands. The transition from A-levels to university was considerable—and the leap from the first to the second term was even more pronounced. It’s easy to feel daunted when you see classmates working diligently and start to question if you’re lagging behind. What helped me was the understanding that everyone is experiencing similar challenges. If you’re finding something difficult to grasp, it’s likely that others are too. Don’t hesitate to seek assistance—whether from classmates or faculty members. Learning to ask for help is one of the most crucial skills you can cultivate in your first year.
Speaking of assistance, the staff in the Materials department are remarkable. They earnestly desire for students to thrive and are always receptive to discussing any issues we encounter. Although I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support available until later in the academic year, I wish I had embraced it earlier. At the outset, I took a step forward by becoming a Year Wellbeing Representative, which enabled me to forge strong relationships with staff members—something I found immensely beneficial. There are various avenues to get acquainted with the faculty, and doing so can significantly enhance your university experience. My suggestion: fully leverage the support systems at your disposal. You can never have too much assistance.
In summary, this year has shown me that the worries I had before and during university were often baseless—and that help is always accessible if you actively seek it. I’ve realized that I’m never truly isolated, and that it’s feasible to harmonize hard work with enjoyment, even during stressful periods such as exams and deadlines.
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By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London
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