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Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
A decade ago, in October 2022, I experienced a whirlwind of anxiety, fear, and uncertainty regarding what lay ahead. I was on the brink of starting my adventure as a first-year student in Materials Science and Engineering at Imperial. Embracing something entirely new was a stretch for me, as I had always leaned toward being shy and introverted. Looking back now, I recognize a year filled with personal development, challenges, and immense enjoyment. So, what insights has this past year provided, and where do I stand now?
One of the earliest and most daunting obstacles I encountered was forming friendships. If you’re an incoming student reading this, you might have similar concerns. On my first day as I moved into university housing—a few days before the official term began—I spent the whole day shut away in my room, too apprehensive to venture out and introduce myself. Fast forward to today, and I can proudly say I’ve formed some of the finest friendships of my life, both in my program and throughout the university. It appears that all it required was a bit of casual conversation with others who were just as anxious as I was.
What’s the most significant takeaway? Take a risk early on. Even if you feel unprepared, there will be numerous ice-breakers and activities meant to assist you in meeting others. And above all, be authentic. With such a varied student population, you’re sure to encounter individuals who resonate with your interests and values.
Another substantial challenge was adapting to the academic demands and the increase in complexity. The transition from A-levels was palpable—and the leap from the first to the second term felt even more pronounced. It’s easy to feel inundated or question your capabilities when you observe your peers diligently studying. However, one thing that provided comfort was realizing that everyone is facing similar situations. If you’re having difficulty grasping a concept, it’s likely that others are as well. Don’t hesitate to seek assistance—from classmates, professors, or tutors. Learning to request help is arguably the most crucial skill I honed during my initial year.
Speaking of support, the faculty in the Department of Materials is exceptional. They genuinely desire for you to thrive and are acutely aware of the hurdles students encounter. They keep communication channels open throughout the academic year and are always receptive to listening. I didn’t fully exploit the pastoral support available until later in the year—a decision I now regret not making much sooner.
At the beginning of the year, I took a bold step and became a Year Wellbeing Representative. This position allowed me to forge connections with faculty members, which proved to be immensely beneficial. There are numerous chances to engage with staff, and seizing those opportunities can profoundly enhance your university experience. My recommendation? Take full advantage of the support available—there’s no such thing as too much.
In summary, this year has shown me that the anxieties I felt—both prior to and during my time at university—were often unfounded. Thanks to the backing of friends, staff, and the broader university community, I learned that I was never truly isolated. Most critically, I discovered how to strike a balance between the pressures of exams and deadlines while also embracing enjoyment and the overall experience.
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By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London
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