Certainly! Here’s a rephrased version of the text you shared:
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Written by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
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Looking back to October 2022, I recall a swirl of nerves, apprehension, and uncertainty as I geared up to embark on my journey in Materials Science and Engineering at Imperial. Being someone who has always leaned towards being shy and reserved, stepping into such a vast new chapter felt quite daunting. Now, as I reflect on the previous academic year, I see a path filled with growth, obstacles, and a multitude of unforgettable experiences. So, what insights have I gained, and what’s my current standing?
One of the initial—and most daunting—obstacles I encountered was forming friendships. If you’re an incoming student, you might share this concern. On my first day settling into accommodation, merely days before the term was set to begin, I was so anxious that I spent the entire day hidden away in my room, too frightened to introduce myself to anyone. Fast forward to now, and I can proudly say I’ve forged some of the most incredible friendships—relationships that feel like a second family. It all began with simple chats with others who were just as apprehensive as I was.
The key takeaway? Dive in from the start. Even if you don’t feel prepared, there will be ample ice-breakers and events designed to help you connect with others. Most importantly, remain true to yourself. With a vast array of personalities present throughout the course and university, you’re sure to find your tribe.
Another significant challenge was adapting to the workload and the complexity of the coursework. The transition from A-levels to university was considerable—and the shift from the first term to the second was even greater. It’s all too easy to feel a dip in confidence when you notice others devoted to their studies and you start sensing that you’re lagging. However, one thing that assisted me was the realization that everyone faces similar struggles. If you’re grappling with a concept, likely, others are as well. Don’t shy away from seeking support—whether from fellow students or faculty. Learning to ask for assistance early on is one of the most invaluable skills you can acquire in your first year.
Speaking of faculty, the backing from the Materials department has been exceptional. The lecturers and staff genuinely wish for students to thrive, demonstrating a strong understanding of the hurdles we encounter. They maintain open lines of communication all year long, always eager to listen and provide assistance. Although I didn’t fully take advantage of the pastoral support until later in the year, I wish I had reached out sooner.
At the year’s onset, I took a bold step and became a Year Wellbeing Representative. This position enabled me to foster connections with staff members, which proved incredibly beneficial. There are numerous ways to engage with staff, and such connections can greatly enhance your university experience. My suggestion? Make the most of all the available support—you can never have enough.
In summary, this year has illustrated to me that the anxieties and uncertainties I experienced prior to and during university were frequently unwarranted. With the help of faculty and classmates, I discovered that I was never truly alone. Most crucially, I found a way to juggle the demands of exams and deadlines while also having fun and savoring the experience.
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By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London
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Would you like an additional version that leans more formal or one that has an even more relaxed, blog-like tone?