Of course! Here’s a rephrased version of the provided text, retaining all HTML tags and structure:
—
Written by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, fear, and doubt about the future. I was set to embark on my first year studying Materials Science and Engineering at Imperial, and venturing into the unknown was not something my formerly shy and reserved self was accustomed to. Reflecting on the past year now, I recognize a period rich in development, challenges, and numerous unforgettable experiences. So, what insights have I gained, and where do I currently stand?
One of the initial—and most daunting—obstacles I encountered was forming friendships. This often ranks as a significant concern for many newcomers. On the day of my move into my accommodation, just days before classes commenced, I spent nearly the entire day sequestered in my room, too apprehensive to venture out and introduce myself. Fast forward to the present, and I can assertively state that I’ve formed some of the finest friendships I’ve ever had, both within my program and throughout the university. It turns out that all it required was a bit of casual conversation with individuals who were just as new and uncertain as myself.
The most crucial takeaway? Take that initial step early on. Even if you may not feel prepared, there will be numerous ice-breakers and social events aimed at helping you connect with others. Above all, be authentic. With such a diverse student body, you are sure to come across individuals with whom you resonate.
Another significant challenge was adapting to the academic demands and the intricacies of the material. The transition from A-levels was stark—and the leap from the first to the second term was even more pronounced. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed or question your skills when witnessing others putting in substantial effort. However, a valuable reminder for me was to recognize that everyone is facing similar situations. If you find yourself having difficulty grasping a concept, it’s likely that others are as well. Don’t hesitate to seek help—whether from peers or faculty. Learning to ask for support is among the most important skills you can cultivate during your first year.
On the topic of support, I must commend the remarkable staff within the Materials department. They sincerely desire for students to thrive and are always receptive to discussing any challenges we encounter. Although I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support accessible to us until later in the year, I wish I had embarked on that journey sooner. Early in the year, I took the initiative to become a Year Wellbeing Representative, affording me the chance to develop connections with staff members—an experience of great value. There are numerous avenues to engage with staff, and doing so can significantly enhance your university journey. My recommendation? Fully leverage all the available support—you can never have too much.
In summary, this year has highlighted to me that the anxieties and fears I harbored—before and during university—were frequently baseless. With a broad spectrum of support from both faculty and fellow students, I was never genuinely alone. Most importantly, I learned the art of balancing diligent work with enjoyment, even during intense periods such as exams and deadlines.
—
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London
—
Would you like a slightly more formal or polished version depending on where you plan to use it?