Of course! Here’s a spun version of the article:
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Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I was engulfed in nerves, anxiety, and doubt as I geared up to embark on my journey in Materials Science and Engineering at Imperial College London. Being naturally shy and introverted, immersing myself in an entirely new atmosphere seemed daunting. Now, reflecting on my initial year, I recognize a journey abundant with personal development, obstacles, and immense enjoyment. So, what insights have I gained, and what is my current standing?
One of the most daunting challenges from the outset was establishing friendships. For any incoming student, this may also be a concern for you. I vividly recall spending my entire first day confined to my accommodation room, too anxious to venture out and introduce myself. Fast forward to the present, and I can proudly state that I’ve formed some of the most meaningful friendships I’ve ever experienced—friends who have become like family. What made this possible? Taking gradual steps, like initiating conversations with peers who were equally new and apprehensive. I realized the importance of taking that leap early. And keep in mind: there’s no need to force anything. There are numerous ice-breakers and events specifically designed for meeting new people. Above all, be authentic. With such a diverse community at Imperial, you’re bound to meet individuals you resonate with.
Another significant challenge was acclimatizing to the academic demands and the complexity of the subject matter. There’s certainly an elevation in difficulty compared to A-levels, and the leap from the first to the second term was even more pronounced. It’s easy to feel daunted or to second-guess yourself when observing others intensely studying. However, one aspect that profoundly aided me was remembering that everyone is navigating similar waters. If you find yourself struggling with a concept, it’s likely that others are, too. Don’t hesitate to seek assistance—be it from your peers or the faculty. Developing the ability to ask for help is among the most vital skills you can cultivate in your first year.
In terms of support, the personnel in the Materials department are exceptional. They genuinely care about student success and are acutely aware of the hurdles we encounter. Throughout the academic year, they kept lines of communication open with us and were always willing to lend an ear. Although I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support available until later in the year, I wish I had taken advantage of it sooner. One of the most beneficial choices I made was to become a Year Wellbeing Representative, which allowed me to collaborate closely with staff and foster valuable connections. There are countless opportunities to engage with faculty, and doing so can truly enrich your university journey. My suggestion: leverage all available support—you can never have too much!
In summary, this year has shown me that the anxieties and fears I experienced prior to and during university were frequently misjudged. With the outstanding support from faculty and peers, I discovered that I was never genuinely alone. Most crucially, I learned how to navigate the pressures of exams and deadlines while still 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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