Written by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
In October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, uncertainty, and quite a bit of fear. As I prepared to embark on my first year of studying Materials Science and Engineering at Imperial College London, my innate shyness made this significant new chapter seem daunting. Reflecting on the past ten months, I recognize a year marked by personal development, challenges, and incredible memories. So, what insights have I gained—and what is my current state?
One of the most formidable and daunting obstacles I encountered initially was forging friendships. If you are an incoming student, this is likely a concern for you as well. I recall my first day in student housing spent inside my room, too anxious to venture out and introduce myself. But fast forward to the present, and I have established some of the most meaningful friendships I’ve ever experienced—many with fellow students from my course. I have discovered a second family here at Imperial. What changed? The key was to start small—engaging in conversations with those in similar situations. The takeaway lesson is this: make that initial move early on. Even if you don’t feel prepared, there will be numerous chances to connect with peers through ice-breaker sessions and events. And most importantly, stay true to yourself. With such a varied student population, you are sure to find individuals you resonate with.
Academically, the shift from A-levels to university studies presented another significant challenge. The increase in both workload and complexity was evident—particularly from the first to the second terms. It’s easy to become overwhelmed or to compare your progress against those who seem to be managing better. However, one thing that aided me was the realization that everyone is experiencing similar challenges. If you find yourself struggling to grasp concepts, it’s likely that others are as well. Don’t hold back from seeking assistance—whether from your classmates or faculty. Learning to request help is among the most crucial skills to acquire during your first year.
On the topic of staff, I can’t praise the teaching and support team in the Materials department enough. They are genuinely invested in students’ success and are always receptive to feedback and communication. I didn’t fully utilize the available pastoral support until later in the academic year, and I wish I had discovered it sooner. One proactive step I took early on was becoming a well-being representative for my cohort. This position allowed me to forge closer ties with staff members, which proved to be incredibly beneficial. There are numerous avenues to foster those connections, and I wholeheartedly encourage you to pursue them. The support is there—capitalize on it!
In summary, this year has demonstrated to me that the fears and worries I had—both prior to and during my university journey—were often baseless. With appropriate support and a readiness to step outside of your comfort zone, it’s entirely feasible to flourish. I’ve realized that I’m never genuinely alone, and I’ve learned how to balance diligence with enjoyment, even during high-pressure moments such as exams and deadlines.
By Guest Blogger
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Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London