Of course! Here’s a rephrased version of the article, preserving the essence and style while refreshing the language:
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Written by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, back in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with nerves, 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. Throwing myself into the unfamiliar wasn’t something my previously timid and reserved self was accustomed to. Now, reflecting on this past year, I see it filled with growth, challenges, and a ton of enjoyment. So, what have I learned, and where do I stand now?
One of the initial and most daunting obstacles I encountered was making friends. If you’re a prospective student reading this, it might be one of your top concerns too. On the day I moved into my accommodation—just a few days prior to the term starting—I spent the whole day cloistered in my room, far too anxious to venture out and introduce myself. Fast forward to today, and I can say with confidence that I’ve forged some of the best friendships I’ve ever had, both within my course and across the university. I’ve created a second family here at Imperial, beginning with a few straightforward dialogues with others who were equally nervous as I was.
The most significant takeaway? Take that initial step. Even if you’re unsure, there are numerous ice-breakers and events designed to help you connect with others. And above all, just be yourself. With such a diverse community at Imperial, you’re sure to find people you resonate with.
Another considerable challenge was adapting to the workload and the content’s complexity. There was certainly a noticeable leap from A-levels—and an even larger one between the first and second terms. Being thrust into such a rapid-paced environment can easily undermine your confidence. It’s simple to look around and feel like everyone else has it all together. But believe me, you’re not alone. If you’re having trouble grasping something, it’s likely others are too. The essential thing is to seek help—whether from your classmates or the staff. Learning to reach out for support has probably been the most critical skill I honed during my first year.
Speaking of staff, I can’t emphasize enough how wonderful the Materials department is. The lecturers and support personnel genuinely want you to thrive. They understand the hurdles students face and keep channels of communication open throughout the year. I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support available until later in the year, and I wish I had taken advantage of it sooner.
At the beginning of the year, I took a chance and became a Year Wellbeing Representative. This position provided me the chance to collaborate closely with staff members, which turned out to be immensely valuable. There are many ways to cultivate relationships with staff, and doing so can significantly enhance your university experience. My advice: fully leverage the support that’s offered—you can never receive too much assistance.
Overall, this year has shown me that the nerves and fears I harbored—both before and during university—were often unfounded. With the extensive support from staff and fellow students, those feelings became manageable. I’ve discovered that I’m never truly alone, and that it’s entirely possible to relish university life even amidst the demands of 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 a bit more casual or one that’s even more polished for a formal blog post?