Of course! Here’s a rephrased version of the text:
—
Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
A mere ten months ago, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, fear, and uncertainty regarding what was to come. I was on the verge of beginning my adventure as a first-year student in Materials Science and Engineering at Imperial. Stepping into the unknown was foreign to my previously shy and quiet nature. Now, as I reflect on the past academic year, I recognize a journey filled with personal development, challenges, and plenty of enjoyment. So, what insights have I gained, and where do I find myself now?
One of the initial—and most daunting—obstacles I encountered was forging friendships. Meeting new individuals often ranks among the most daunting aspects of commencing university, and if you are an incoming student reading this, you might share in that concern. On my inaugural day of moving into accommodation, just prior to the start of term, I spent virtually the entire day sequestered in my room, too anxious to venture out and introduce myself. Fast forward to now, and I am pleased to say that I have made some of the finest friends I’ve ever known—friends who feel like a second family here at Imperial. All it necessitated was a few moments of casual conversation with others who were just as new and uncertain as I was.
What’s the key takeaway? Take the plunge early on. Even if you don’t feel prepared, there will be numerous ice-breakers and events aimed at facilitating connections with others. And above all, be authentic. With such a diverse student community, you are sure to find individuals who share your interests and principles.
Another significant challenge was adapting to the workload and the complexity of the material. The transition from A-levels was distinctly noticeable, and the ascent from the first to the second term was even steeper. Being immersed in such a demanding environment can shake your self-assurance—you might find yourself measuring your progress against others and feeling as though you’re falling behind. What aided me was the realization that everyone is experiencing similar struggles. If you’re grappling with understanding something, many others likely are too. Don’t hesitate to seek assistance—whether from classmates or from the faculty. Learning to ask for help is one of the most crucial skills to cultivate during your first year.
On the topic of faculty, the Materials department is exceptional. The lecturers and support staff genuinely want students to thrive and are acutely aware of the difficulties we encounter. They maintain open channels of communication throughout the year to address any issues that arise. I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support available until later in the academic year, but I wish I had sought it out sooner.
At the year’s outset, I made one significant leap: I became a Year Wellbeing Representative. This position allowed me to establish relationships with staff members—a profoundly beneficial experience. There are various avenues to connect with the faculty, and doing so can significantly enhance your university experience. My most important takeaway here? Fully utilize the support accessible to you—you can never have an excess!
In summary, this year has demonstrated to me that the apprehensions and uncertainties I harbored—both prior to and during my university experience—were frequently unwarranted. With the abundant support from faculty and fellow students, I discovered that I was never truly alone. Most importantly, I learned how to juggle the inevitable pressures of exams and deadlines alongside enjoying myself and maximizing my time at university.
—
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London
—