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Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I was enveloped in anxiety, fear, and uncertainty regarding what the future held. I was on the brink of starting my first year in Materials Science and Engineering at Imperial College London. Embracing the unknown was not something my earlier reserved and timid self was accustomed to. Now, reflecting on the past year, I recognize a journey filled with personal development, challenges, and numerous unforgettable experiences. So, what insights have I gained, and what is my current situation?
One of the initial and most daunting obstacles I encountered was forming friendships. The commencement of university can be intimidating, and if you are an incoming student reading this, you may resonate with these feelings. On my first day of settling into my accommodation—just a few days prior to the official start of term—I spent the entire day sequestered in my room, too anxious to venture out and introduce myself. Fast forward to today, I’m proud to say that I’ve formed some of the finest friendships in my life, both within my program and across the university. Imperial has become a surrogate family for me. All it required were a few instances of small conversations with individuals who were equally anxious.
The key takeaway? Dare to take the plunge early. Even if you don’t feel fully prepared, there will be numerous icebreakers and events aimed at helping you connect with others. Most importantly, remain authentic. With such a varied community at Imperial, you are sure to discover individuals who resonate with your interests and values.
Another significant challenge was adapting to the academic demands and the complexity of the coursework. There was a distinct elevation from A-levels, and the transition from the first term to the second term was even more pronounced. Being immersed in such a rigorous environment can undermine your confidence—you may observe others studying and begin to question your abilities. What aided me was the realization that everyone is experiencing similar struggles. If you find yourself grappling with a concept, it’s likely that others are too. Do not hesitate to seek assistance—whether from classmates or faculty. Learning to seek support is among the most essential skills you can cultivate during your first year.
On the topic of support, the faculty within the Department of Materials is exceptional. They truly desire for students to thrive and are acutely aware of the hurdles we encounter. Throughout the year, they kept lines of communication open and provided unwavering support. Although I did not fully utilize the pastoral services until later in the year, I wish I had taken advantage of them sooner.
At the start of the year, I took a step forward and became a Year Wellbeing Representative. This position enabled me to forge strong connections with faculty members, which turned out to be priceless. There are numerous avenues to connect with the staff, and doing so can significantly enrich your university experience. My recommendation? Make the most of the support offered—you can never have too much assistance.
In summary, this year has enlightened me that the anxieties and trepidations I faced before and during university were frequently unfounded. With the extensive network of support from both staff and fellow students, I learned that I was never genuinely alone. Most crucially, I found out how to manage the unavoidable pressures of exams and deadlines while savoring my time at university.
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By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London
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