Of course! Here’s a rephrased version of the article:
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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 uncertainty about what lay ahead. I was preparing to start my journey as a first-year student in Materials Science and Engineering at Imperial. Jumping into something so unfamiliar wasn’t exactly within my comfort zone — I had always been rather shy and reserved. Reflecting back now, I see a year filled with personal development, challenges, and a significant amount of fun. So, what have I gained from this experience, and where do I stand now?
One of the earliest and most daunting challenges was forming friendships. Entering university can feel intimidating, and if you’re a potential student reading this, it may be among your largest concerns as well. On the day I settled into my accommodation — a few days prior to the courses starting — I spent the whole day sequestered in my room, too nervous to go out and introduce myself. Fast forward to today, and I can proudly say that I’ve found some of the most amazing friends of my life here, both in my course and throughout the university. Imperial has turned into a second home for me. What did I discover from this? That taking the initial step, even when it feels frightening, is essential. And if you’re not ready immediately, that’s perfectly fine — there are numerous ice-breakers and activities designed to assist you in meeting new people. Most importantly, I learned that authenticity is crucial. With such a varied student body, you’re sure to meet individuals who share your interests and values.
Another significant adjustment was managing the academic workload and the complexity of the material. There was certainly a noticeable leap from A-levels, and an even more pronounced jump between the first and second terms. Being placed in such a demanding environment can sometimes undermine your confidence — it’s all too easy to look around and feel like everyone else has it all under control. However, one thing that aided me was recalling that everyone is experiencing similar challenges. If you’re having difficulty grasping a concept, chances are others are as well. Seeking help — from peers and staff — is among the most vital skills you can cultivate in your first year.
Speaking of staff, the assistance from the Materials department has been remarkable. The lecturers and tutors genuinely aim for students to thrive and are acutely aware of the hurdles we encounter. They foster open communication and are always prepared to listen. I didn’t fully utilize the available pastoral support until later in the year, and I wish I had reached out sooner. Early on, I took a chance by becoming a Year Well-being Representative, which allowed me to establish connections with staff members — an experience I found incredibly valuable. There are numerous avenues to connect with staff, and doing so can significantly enhance your university journey. My recommendation: leverage all the support provided. You can never receive too much assistance.
Ultimately, this year has shown me that the concerns I had — both before and during my university experience — were often misplaced. With the extensive support from staff and fellow students, I learned that I’m never truly alone. Above all, I discovered how to balance diligence with enjoyment, even during stressful periods like 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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Would you also like a second version that’s even more concise or one that’s slightly more formal?