Of course! Here’s a rephrased rendition of the article:
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Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Approximately ten months ago, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, fear, and uncertainty regarding what lay ahead. I was about to embark on my first year studying Materials Science and Engineering at Imperial College London. Having always been somewhat introverted and reserved, plunging into a completely unfamiliar setting felt intimidating. Now, reflecting on the year, I recognize a time filled with growth, challenges, and memorable encounters. So, what insights have I gained, and what is my current standing?
One of the initial and most daunting challenges I encountered was forming friendships. If you are an incoming student reading this, you may be experiencing similar feelings of apprehension. I vividly recall spending my entire first day in my accommodation, retreating to my room due to nervousness about introducing myself. Fast forward to now, and I can proudly state that I’ve formed some of the most meaningful friendships of my life — connections that feel akin to a second family. What proved beneficial? Taking small strides, such as initiating conversations with others who were just as new and apprehensive as I was. My primary takeaway from this experience: take the plunge early. Even if you don’t feel prepared, numerous ice-breakers and social gatherings are available to facilitate connections. And above all, be true to yourself — with the richness of diversity at Imperial, you’re bound to discover your community.
Another significant hurdle was adapting to the academic demands and the leap in difficulty from A-levels. The transition was challenging, particularly the shift from the first to the second term. It’s all too easy to feel inundated when you observe your peers studying and worry that you’re lagging behind. However, one aspect that truly assisted me was the realization that everyone is experiencing similar challenges. If you find yourself grappling with a concept, it’s likely that others are too. The crucial lesson? Don’t hesitate to seek assistance — whether from your classmates, tutors, or lecturers. Reaching out is one of the most valuable skills you can cultivate in your first year.
Speaking of support, I cannot praise the Materials department staff enough. They are genuinely invested in students’ success and recognize the hurdles we encounter. Throughout the year, they kept open lines of communication and provided abundant support. While I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral services until later in the year, I regret not doing so sooner. One initiative I did undertake early on was becoming a Year Wellbeing Representative, which allowed me to foster relationships with staff — something I highly endorse. There are numerous ways to engage with your lecturers and support staff, and building these relationships can significantly enhance your university journey. My takeaway: never shy away from tapping into the support available to you — more support is always better.
Ultimately, this year has revealed to me that the nervousness and fears I experienced — both prior to starting and during my time at university — were often unfounded. With the remarkable backing from staff and peers, I learned that I was never genuinely alone. Most importantly, I discovered how to navigate the pressures of exams and deadlines while also enjoying my time and making the most of the experience.
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By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London
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