Of course! Here’s the rephrased version of the article:
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Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Approximately ten months ago, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with nerves, fear, and uncertainty as I geared up to embark on my journey as a first-year student in Materials Science and Engineering at Imperial College London. Venturing into the unknown was not something my inherently shy and reserved personality was accustomed to. Reflecting on this past year, I now recognize it as a period filled with personal development, challenges, and a great deal of enjoyment. So, what insights have I gained, and where do I find myself today?
One of the initial and most daunting challenges I encountered was forming friendships. If you are a prospective student reading this, you might be experiencing similar apprehensions. I recall spending my entire first day locked in my room after moving into accommodation, far too anxious to venture out and introduce myself. Fast forward to now, and I can confidently assert that I’ve formed some of the best friendships of my life—friends who feel like family. It only took a few moments of casual conversation with individuals who were just as new and apprehensive as I was.
The most significant takeaway? Make the effort early on. Even if you feel unprepared, there will be numerous ice-breakers and activities meant to facilitate meeting others. Most importantly, be authentic. Given the diverse student population, you’re sure to find individuals with whom you resonate.
Another significant challenge was adapting to the workload and the complexity of the coursework. The transition from A-levels was marked, and the leap from the first to the second term was even more pronounced. It’s easy to become overwhelmed and question your abilities when observing others studying diligently. However, what aided me was the reminder that everyone is navigating similar difficulties. If you’re finding certain concepts challenging, chances are others are too. Don’t shy away from seeking assistance—be it from your peers or the staff. Developing the habit of reaching out is one of the most crucial skills you can cultivate in your first year.
On the subject of staff, I cannot stress enough how encouraging the Materials department is. The lecturers and staff genuinely care about your success and are always eager to listen to students’ concerns. While I didn’t fully engage with the pastoral support resources available until later in the year, I wish I had taken that step sooner. Early on, I took a leap by becoming a Year Wellbeing Representative, which allowed me to foster relationships with staff members—an immensely rewarding experience. There are numerous avenues to connect with staff, and doing so can significantly enrich your university journey. My recommendation: take full advantage of all the support available. You can never have too much assistance.
In summary, this year has revealed to me that the anxieties and fears I possessed—both prior to and during university—were often groundless. With the extensive support provided by both staff and fellow students, I realized I was never truly alone. Most importantly, I learned how to navigate the pressures of exams and deadlines while also savoring my time at university.
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By Guest Blogger
Categorized under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London
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