Of course! Here’s a rephrased version of the article:
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Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
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Ten months ago, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with nerves, fear, and uncertainty about what was coming. I was on the verge of starting my first year in Materials Science and Engineering at Imperial College London, and embarking on such a significant change felt entirely out of character for someone like me, who usually tends to be shy and reserved. Looking back now, I realize that the year has been filled with growth, challenges, and a great deal of enjoyment. So, what insights have I gained, and where do I stand now?
One of the foremost—and most daunting—obstacles I encountered was forming friendships. If you’re future student, this might be a concern for you as well. On the day I settled into my accommodation, just days before classes officially commenced, I spent the whole day ensconced in my room, too apprehensive to venture out and introduce myself. Fast forward to today, and I can genuinely say that I’ve formed some of the best friendships of my life here—friends who feel like family. It all began with simple conversations with others who were just as anxious as I was.
What’s the key takeaway? Jump in early. Even if you don’t feel prepared, there are numerous ice-breakers and events aimed at helping you connect with others. Most importantly, be authentic. With such a diverse student community, you’re sure to find individuals who share your passions and beliefs.
Another significant challenge was adapting to the workload and its complexity. The transition from A-levels to university was substantial—and the shift from the first term to the second was even more pronounced. It’s easy to feel daunted when you see peers studying intensely and begin to question your own capabilities. What assisted me was the realization that everyone faces similar struggles. If you’re having a tough time with something, it’s likely that others are as well. Don’t hesitate to seek help—whether from fellow students or faculty. Learning to seek assistance is one of the most crucial skills you can cultivate in your first year.
Speaking of assistance, the staff in the Materials department are remarkable. They genuinely care about students’ success and understand the challenges we encounter. Throughout the year, they maintained transparent communication with us and provided support whenever necessary. Although I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral services until later on, I wish I had engaged with them sooner.
At the beginning of the year, I took a leap of faith and became a Wellbeing Representative for my cohort. This role allowed me to connect with the staff more closely, which proved to be immensely beneficial. There are numerous ways to forge relationships with staff, and doing so can greatly enrich your university journey. My recommendation? Make the most of the support available—you can never have too much assistance.
In summary, this year has shown me that the nerves and anxieties I experienced before and during university were often unfounded. With the incredible backing from staff and fellow students, I realized that I was never truly alone. Most importantly, I learned how to balance diligent work with enjoyment, even during stressful periods like exams and due dates.
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By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London
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