By Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Just ten months prior, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, fear, and uncertainty regarding what lay ahead. I was on the verge of starting my first year as a student in Materials Science and Engineering at Imperial. Venturing into the unknown was foreign to my previously shy and reserved nature. Now, as I look back on the last academic year, I recognize a path filled with growth, challenges, and enjoyable experiences. So, what insights have I gained, and what is my current state?
One of the initial and most daunting obstacles was forming friendships. If you’re an incoming student, this could be one of your primary concerns. I vividly remember my first day settling into my accommodation — I spent the entire day secluded in my room, too anxious to venture out and introduce myself. Fast-forward to today, and I can proudly say I’ve formed some of the most meaningful friendships I’ve ever had, both in my program and around the university. Imperial has genuinely become a second family to me. All it took was a bit of small talk with others who were equally anxious. My key lesson? Take that initial step. Even if you feel unprepared, there will be numerous ice-breaking activities and events to facilitate connections. And most importantly, stay true to yourself — in such a diverse community, you’re sure to find people with whom you resonate.
Another significant challenge was getting accustomed to the academic demands and the complexity of the material. The transition from A-levels was considerable, and the leap from the first term to the second was even more pronounced. It’s easy to feel inundated, especially when it seems like everyone else has everything under control. But here’s the reality: everyone faces similar struggles. If you’re having difficulty grasping a concept, it’s likely that many others are experiencing the same. The best advice I can offer? Don’t hesitate to seek assistance — from your peers, faculty, or anyone willing to help. Learning to ask for help is one of the most vital skills you can acquire in your first year.
Regarding support, I cannot emphasize enough how remarkable the staff in the Materials department are. They genuinely desire for students to thrive and are always ready to listen to any challenges we encounter. Although I didn’t fully utilize the available pastoral support until later in the year, I wish I had reached out sooner. Early on, I took the initiative to become a year well-being representative, providing me with the chance to forge strong connections with staff — an experience that proved invaluable. There are numerous avenues for getting to know your lecturers and tutors, and doing so can significantly impact your journey. My suggestion? Capitalize on every support system at your disposal. You’ll never regret having too much support.
In summary, this year has shown me that the anxieties and concerns I had — both prior to and during university — were often unfounded. With immense support from staff and peers, I realized that I was never genuinely alone. Most importantly, I learned how to navigate the inevitable stresses of exams and deadlines while still having fun and relishing the university experience.