Of course! Here’s a rewritten 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 brimming with nerves, fear, and ambiguity regarding what lay ahead. I was just about to embark on my first year studying Materials Science and Engineering at Imperial College London. Immersing myself in such a significant change was not something my previously introverted and reserved self was accustomed to. Now, reflecting on the year, I recognize a time filled with personal development, challenges, and a great deal of enjoyment. So, what insights have I gained, and what is my current situation?
One of the foremost and most daunting challenges was establishing friendships. It’s a common concern for many freshers, and I was no different. On my initial day moving into student housing—just a few days ahead of classes starting—I spent the whole day secluded in my room, too anxious to venture out and introduce myself. Fast forward to today, and I’m pleased to report that I’ve forged some of the best friendships I’ve ever had, both within my program and throughout the university. I’ve discovered a second family here at Imperial. All it required was some casual conversation with others who were just as new and uncertain as I was.
The most significant takeaway? Take that leap early. Even if you don’t feel prepared, there will be numerous ice-breakers and events tailored to assist you in meeting others. Above all, be true to yourself. With such a varied student community, you are sure to discover individuals you resonate with.
Another significant challenge was adapting to the workload and complexity of the course material. The transition from A-levels was striking—and the jump from the first term to the second term was even more pronounced. It didn’t always bolster my confidence. It’s natural to glance around and sense that everyone else has it all figured out, but the reality is, everyone is adapting and grappling with their own issues. One of the most invaluable skills I acquired was the ability to seek help. Whether it’s from peers or teaching staff, reaching out makes an enormous impact.
Regarding the staff, the Materials department at Imperial is exceptional. The lecturers and support personnel genuinely care about students’ success and are very cognizant of the challenges we encounter. They keep open lines of communication and are always available to assist. I didn’t fully engage with the pastoral support options until later in the academic year, and I wish I had done so sooner. Initially, I did take a significant step by serving as a Year Wellbeing Representative, which allowed me to forge relationships with staff members—a truly enriching experience. There are numerous avenues to familiarize yourself with the staff, and doing so can significantly enhance your university journey. My suggestion? Make the most of every support system available—you can never have too much assistance.
In summary, this year has shown me that the anxiety I felt before and throughout university was frequently unfounded. With the extensive support provided by both staff and fellow students, I was never genuinely alone. I’ve learned how to manage stress from exams and deadlines while enjoying myself and maximizing my experience here.
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By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London
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