Of course! Here’s a rephrased version of the article:
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Written by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
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Ten months ago, in October 2022, I found myself overwhelmed with nerves, fear, and uncertainty about what lay ahead. I was about to embark on my first year of studying Materials Science and Engineering at Imperial, and venturing into the unknown was not something my previously shy and introverted self was accustomed to. Now, reflecting back, I see a year filled with growth, challenges, and plenty of enjoyable moments. So, what insights has this year offered me, and where do I stand now?
One of the earliest—and most daunting—obstacles I encountered was forming friendships. If you’re an incoming student reading this, you might share similar concerns. I recall moving into my accommodation a few days before the semester began and spending my entire first day tucked away in my room, too anxious to step out and meet anyone. Fast forward to now, and I’m thrilled to say I’ve made some of the best friends I’ve ever had—friends who feel like family. All it took was a few moments of casual conversation with others who were just as nervous as I was.
What did I learn? That taking the plunge early on is beneficial. Even if you don’t feel prepared, there will be plenty of ice-breakers and events aimed at helping you connect with others. Most importantly, just be yourself. With such a vibrant community at Imperial, you’re sure to discover people with whom you resonate.
Another significant adjustment was the academic demands and the complexity of the material. There was indeed a noticeable increase from A-levels—and an even bigger leap from the first term to the second term. It’s natural to feel overwhelmed or to question yourself when you see your peers studying diligently. But one thing that supported me was the realization that everyone is navigating the same challenges. If you’re struggling with a concept, chances are others are facing similar difficulties. The crucial thing is to seek help—whether it’s from your fellow students or the faculty. Learning to ask for assistance is probably the most valuable skill I acquired during my first year.
Speaking of support, the staff in the Materials department are simply outstanding. They genuinely care about students’ success and are quite aware of the hurdles we encounter. They keep open lines of communication with us throughout the year, always willing to listen and assist. I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support available until later into the year, and I wish I had done so earlier.
At the beginning of the year, I took a leap and became a Year Wellbeing Representative. This position allowed me to forge relationships with staff members, which proved to be incredibly beneficial. There are numerous ways to connect with faculty, and doing so can significantly enrich your university journey. My advice? Make the most of the support systems available—you can never have too much assistance.
In summary, this year has taught me that the nerves and fears I experienced before and during university were often exaggerated. With the backing of staff and fellow students, those feelings became manageable. I’ve discovered that I’m never completely alone, and that it’s entirely possible to enjoy university life even while facing the pressures of 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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