Of course! Here’s a rewritten version of the article:
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Written by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, fear, and uncertainty about what was approaching. I was on the verge of starting my first year in Materials Science and Engineering at Imperial, and immersing myself in something so unfamiliar was well beyond my comfort zone. Reflecting now, I see a year filled with development, challenges, and memorable experiences. So, what insights have I gained, and where do I stand now?
One of the most daunting and challenging aspects at the beginning was forming friendships. If you’re a prospective student reading this, you might be feeling similar apprehensions. On move-in day, just days prior to the term’s start, I spent hours sequestered in my room, too anxious to venture out and introduce myself. Fast forward to the present, and I can genuinely say I’ve formed some of the most meaningful friendships of my life—both within my course and throughout the university. It turns out that all it required was a handful of conversations with individuals who were just as anxious as I was.
The fundamental takeaway? Take that initial leap. Even when you don’t feel prepared, there are numerous ice-breaking activities and events intended to help you connect with others. And above all, be authentic. Imperial is populated with individuals from all walks of life, and you’re bound to find your niche.
Another significant challenge was adapting to the academic demands and the complexity of the curriculum. There’s definitely a transition from A-levels to university, and an even sharper one between the first and second terms. It’s easy to feel daunted or question your capabilities when observing others studying around you. But one thing that aided me was recalling that everyone shares the same experience. If you’re having difficulty grasping a concept, there’s a good chance others are too. Don’t hesitate to seek assistance—it’s one of the most vital skills you can cultivate in your first year. Reach out to your classmates and instructors; they’re there to help you.
Speaking of assistance, the staff in the Materials department are outstanding. They genuinely want to see you succeed and are well aware of the hurdles students encounter. Throughout the year, they kept lines of communication open and were always willing to listen. I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support offered until later in the year, and I wish I had taken advantage of it sooner.
At the beginning of the year, I took a chance and became a Year Wellbeing Representative. This position enabled me to forge connections with staff members, which proved to be extremely beneficial. There are numerous opportunities to connect with the staff, and establishing these relationships can significantly enhance your university experience. My suggestion? Take full advantage of the support available—you can never have too much.
Overall, this year has shown me that the anxieties and fears I harbored—both prior to and during university—were often baseless. With the backing of staff and fellow students, I discovered that I was never truly alone. Most crucially, I learned how to balance diligence with enjoyment, even during high-pressure periods like exams and deadlines.
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By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London
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