Of course! Here’s a rephrased version of the article:
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Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
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A decade ago, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, fear, and uncertainty as I geared up to begin my journey in Materials Science and Engineering at Imperial. Being someone who has always been introverted, plunging into university life felt like quite a challenge. Reflecting on the past year, I recognize it has been a time filled with personal development, obstacles, and so many unforgettable experiences. So, what insights have I gained, and what’s my current situation?
One of the initial and most daunting obstacles I encountered was forging new friendships. If you’re an incoming student, this might be a common concern for you as well. On the day I settled into my accommodation—just days prior to the start of term—I was anxious to the point of spending the entire day cooped up in my room, too afraid to introduce myself to anyone. Fast forward to now, and I can proudly say I’ve formed some of the best friendships of my life, both in my program and throughout the university. It turns out that a little casual conversation with others who were equally nervous made a significant impact.
The most crucial takeaway? Make the effort early. Even if you don’t feel quite prepared, there will be numerous ice-breakers and events aimed at helping you connect with others. Most importantly, be authentic. Given the diverse student community, you’re bound to find individuals with whom you resonate.
Another significant challenge was adapting to the rigorous academic demands and the elevated difficulty of the coursework. The transition from A-levels to university was substantial—and the leap from the first term to the second felt even more pronounced. It’s easy to feel inadequate when observing peers studying diligently and to start questioning your own capabilities. A key thing that got me through this was the awareness that everyone is in a similar situation. If you’re having a tough time grasping a concept, it’s likely that others are struggling too. Don’t hesitate to seek assistance—whether from classmates or faculty. Learning to ask for help is one of the most valuable skills you can cultivate in your initial year.
Speaking of faculty, the Materials department is exceptional. The instructors and support staff genuinely desire your success and are well aware of the challenges faced by students. They maintain accessible communication all year round and are always willing to listen. I didn’t fully embrace the available pastoral support until later in the year, and I wish I had taken advantage of it earlier.
At the beginning of the year, I made a significant move by becoming a Year Wellbeing Representative. This position allowed me to foster connections with staff members, proving to be incredibly beneficial. There are many avenues to get acquainted with the staff, and doing so can greatly enhance your university experience. My suggestion? Utilize the support on offer—you can never have too much.
In summary, this year has shown me that the apprehension I felt prior to and during university was often unwarranted. With the extensive support from both faculty and fellow students, I learned that I was never genuinely alone. Most importantly, I uncovered how to manage the unavoidable pressures of exams and deadlines while still having fun and relishing the journey.
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By Guest Contributor
Categorised under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London
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