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Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I was overcome with nerves, apprehension, and uncertainty regarding the future. I was on the verge of starting my first year in Materials Science and Engineering at Imperial, and venturing into the unknown was far from what my previously shy and reserved nature was accustomed to. Reflecting on this past year, I realize it has been filled with personal development, challenges, and plenty of enjoyable moments. So, what insights have I gained, and what is my current situation?
One of the earliest—and most daunting—obstacles I encountered was forming friendships. If you’re a future student reading this, you may be experiencing the same worries. On the day I moved into my accommodation, just a few days prior to classes starting, I spent nearly the entire day sequestered in my room, too anxious to venture out and introduce myself. Fast forward to now, and I can proudly say I’ve forged some of the best friendships of my life—both within my program and throughout the university. I’ve discovered a second family here at Imperial, and it all originated from a few straightforward conversations with others who felt just as apprehensive as I did.
The key takeaway? Take that initial plunge. Even if you feel unprepared, there will be ample ice-breakers and gatherings designed to assist you in meeting new people. And above all, be authentic. With such a diverse community at Imperial, you’re likely to encounter individuals who resonate with your interests and values.
Another significant challenge was adapting to the workload and the level of complexity. There was undoubtedly a distinct leap from A-levels, and even in the first year, the second term felt like an even larger escalation. It’s simple to feel overwhelmed or question your abilities when you observe others studying vigorously. However, a helpful reminder for me was that everyone is experiencing the same struggles. If you find something perplexing, it’s likely that others are too. So, don’t hesitate to reach out for assistance—whether from your peers or the staff. Learning to seek support is one of the most crucial skills you can cultivate in your first year.
Regarding the staff, the Materials department at Imperial is exceptional. The lecturers and support team genuinely care about student success and acknowledge the obstacles we encounter. They maintain open lines of communication with students throughout the year, always willing to listen and assist. Although I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support services until later in the year, I wish I had sought help earlier.
At the beginning of the year, I took a bold step and became a Year Wellbeing Representative. This position allowed me to foster relationships with staff—an incredibly beneficial experience. There are numerous chances to engage with staff, and doing so can truly enrich your university experience. My recommendation? Make the most of all the support available—you can never have too much!
In summary, this year has shown me that the anxieties and fears I encountered before and during university were often unnecessary. With the extensive support from staff and fellow students, I learned that I was never genuinely alone. Most importantly, I realized how to navigate the unavoidable pressures of exams and deadlines while also having fun and maximizing my university experience.
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By Guest Blogger
Categorized under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London
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