Written by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months back, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, uncertainty, and a significant degree of fear as I geared up to embark on my degree in Materials Science and Engineering at Imperial College London. As a first-year student, I was venturing into uncharted territory—and for someone who had always been rather timid and reserved, that was a formidable challenge. Now, reflecting on my inaugural academic year, I recognize a path rich in personal development, obstacles, and memorable experiences. So, what insights have I gained, and where do I stand now?
One of the most daunting challenges I encountered initially was forging friendships. If you’re an incoming student, you might be concerned about this too. I vividly recall spending my entire first day in student housing, sequestered in my room, too apprehensive to introduce myself to others. But fast forward to now, and I can assert that I’ve formed some of the best friendships I’ve ever had—right here, both within my course and throughout the university. It turns out that all it required was a bit of casual conversation with individuals who were just as anxious as I was.
The vital lesson? Take that initial leap. Even if it feels awkward at first, numerous ice-breakers and social gatherings are there to facilitate connections. Most importantly, be authentic. With such a diverse student population, you are guaranteed to encounter individuals who resonate with your interests and values.
Another significant adaptation was adjusting to the academic demands and the complexity of the material. The transition from A-levels to university study was considerable—and the shift from the first term to the second was even more pronounced. It’s simple to feel overwhelmed or doubt your own capabilities when observing others studying with assurance. However, one thing that really aided me was the realization that everyone is in the same situation. If you’re having trouble grasping something, others likely are too. Don’t shy away from seeking help—whether from your peers or the faculty. Learning to request assistance is one of the most essential skills you can cultivate in your first year.
Speaking of assistance, the staff in the Department of Materials are truly remarkable. They sincerely wish for students to thrive, and they recognize the challenges we encounter. They keep lines of communication open and are always ready to listen. I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support available until later in the year, and I wish I’d taken advantage of it sooner. One of the best choices I made was becoming a year well-being representative. This position allowed me to foster connections with staff members, which turned out to be incredibly advantageous. There are numerous ways to engage with staff, and doing so can genuinely enrich your university experience. The most significant takeaway here? Don’t hesitate to leverage the support systems at your disposal—you can never have too much assistance.
In summary, this year has shown me that the anxieties and fears I had—both before and during university—were frequently baseless. With the right support, from both faculty and fellow students, those apprehensions can be managed and overcome. I’ve discovered that I’m never truly alone, and that it’s possible to relish university life even in the face of exam pressures and deadlines.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London