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Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with nerves, anxiety, and uncertainty regarding what lay ahead. I was on the verge of starting my first year studying Materials Science and Engineering at Imperial, and as someone who had always been somewhat shy and reserved, immersing myself in an entirely new environment felt daunting. Looking back at the previous academic year, I now view it as a journey brimming with growth, challenges, and plenty of enjoyable moments. So, what insights have I gained, and what is my current situation?
One of the foremost—and most daunting—obstacles I faced was forming friendships. If you’re an incoming student, you might be apprehensive about this as well. On the day I settled into my accommodation, just a few days prior to the start of the term, I felt such anxiety that I spent the entire day secluded in my room, too frightened to venture out and introduce myself. Fast forward to now, and I can proudly state that I’ve forged some of the best friendships I could have imagined—friends who now feel like a second family. All it took was initiating a few brief conversations with others who were just as uneasy as I was.
The most important lesson? Make the move early. Even if you’re not feeling prepared, there will be numerous ice-breaker events and chances to socialize. And above all, be authentic. With such a varied community at Imperial, you’re sure to find others who resonate with your interests and values.
Another significant challenge was adapting to the academic demands and the complexity of the material. The transition from A-levels to university was considerable—and the shift from the first to second term was even more pronounced. It’s easy to become disheartened when you observe others studying and fear that you’re lagging behind. However, one thing that aided me was recalling that everyone is navigating similar challenges. If you don’t grasp a concept, others likely don’t either. That’s why seeking assistance is vital. Whether it’s from classmates or faculty, reaching out for help can truly make a difference.
Speaking of faculty, the Materials department at Imperial is outstanding. The instructors and support staff genuinely care about students’ success and are aware of the hurdles we encounter. They keep communication channels open throughout the year, always ready to offer support and listen. I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support offered until later in the year, and I regret not doing so sooner.
At the beginning of the year, I took the initiative to become a Wellbeing Representative for my cohort. This role allowed me to foster connections with staff members, which proved to be immensely valuable. There are numerous avenues to engage with staff, and doing so can significantly enrich your university experience. My suggestion? Take full advantage of the resources available—you can never have too much support.
In summary, this year has illustrated to me that the anxieties and fears I held before embarking on my university journey were largely unfounded. With the extensive support available from both faculty and fellow students, I was never truly isolated. I’ve learned how to navigate the pressures of exams and deadlines while also enjoying my time and making the most of this experience.
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By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London
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