Written by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Just ten months ago, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, uncertainty, and quite a bit of fear. I was on the verge of starting my journey as a first-year student in the Materials Science and Engineering MEng programme at Imperial College London. As someone who had always been quiet and withdrawn, jumping into university life felt like a formidable challenge. Reflecting on this past year, I recognize it has been filled with personal growth, obstacles, and memorable experiences. So, what insights have I gained, and what is my current standing?
One of the most significant and daunting hurdles I encountered early on was forming friendships. If you’re an incoming student, this may be a concern for you as well. I vividly recall my first day in student accommodation—before term had even commenced—and I spent the whole day in my room, too apprehensive to venture out and introduce myself. Fast forward to now, and I can say with honesty that I’ve fostered some of the best friendships of my life. These bonds, created through shared experiences in my studies and around campus, have come to feel like a second family to me.
What did this teach me? That taking the initial step—regardless of how insignificant it seems—can lead to significant change. You don’t have to feel completely prepared or self-assured; just be willing to engage in conversation. There are numerous ice-breakers and social gatherings designed to facilitate connections with others. Most importantly, remain authentic. With such a diverse student community, you’re sure to encounter individuals who share your passions and values.
Another significant transition was adapting to the academic workload and the intricate material. The transition from A-levels to university-level study was considerable—and the leap from the first to the second term felt even more pronounced. It’s easy to become overwhelmed or to measure yourself against peers who appear to be managing better. But here’s what assisted me: remembering that everyone shares similar struggles. If you’re having difficulty grasping a concept, chances are others are too. Don’t hesitate to reach out for help—from classmates, tutors, or instructors. Learning to seek assistance is one of the most important skills you can cultivate during your first year.
This brings me to another crucial point: the support from the staff in the Materials department is remarkable. They genuinely want you to thrive and are acutely aware of the obstacles students encounter. They’re friendly, understanding, and maintain available lines of communication throughout the year. I didn’t take full advantage of the pastoral resources provided until later in the year, and I wish I had done so earlier.
One leap I made early on was becoming a well-being representative for my year group. This position allowed me to forge connections with faculty members, which turned out to be incredibly valuable. There are numerous opportunities to engage with your lecturers and support staff, and doing so can significantly enrich your university journey. My greatest takeaway here? Utilize the support systems surrounding you—you can never have too much assistance.
In summary, this year has shown me that the anxiety I experienced before and during the start of university was often misplaced. With the right backing from both fellow students and staff, those apprehensions became manageable. I’ve discovered that I’m never genuinely alone, and it is possible to savor university life despite the pressures of examinations and deadlines.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London