Written by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months prior, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with nerves, uncertainty, and quite a bit of fear. I was on the verge of starting my first year in Materials Science and Engineering at Imperial College London, and the idea of jumping into university life seemed intimidating for someone like me—naturally timid and reserved. Now, reflecting on the past year, I see a journey marked by personal development, challenges, and memorable experiences. So, what insights have I gained, and where do I stand now?
One of the most significant and daunting challenges I faced early on was forming friendships. If you are a prospective student reading this, you might be feeling the same concern. I recall moving into my accommodation just days before the term began and spending that entire first day in my room, too anxious to meet anyone. Fast forward to now, and I can proudly say I’ve formed some of the best friendships of my life—people who feel like a second family. What made the difference? Simply initiating small chats with others who were just as new and uncertain as I was. The vital lesson? Make connections early on. Even if you feel unprepared, there will be numerous opportunities—ice-breakers, social activities, and collective experiences—that will assist you in forging connections with others. And above all, be yourself. With such a varied student population, you’re sure to find people who resonate with your interests and values.
Another significant adjustment was the intensity of the academic workload. It was definitely a notch up from A-levels, and the change from the first to the second term introduced an even steeper learning curve. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed or to compare yourself to peers who appear to handle it better. But one thing that helped me was the realization that everyone is experiencing similar challenges. If you’re having difficulty grasping something, chances are others are too. Don’t hesitate to seek assistance—whether it’s from classmates or lecturers. Learning to ask for help is one of the most vital skills you can cultivate in your first year.
On the topic of support, the staff within the Materials department have been remarkable. They genuinely care about our success and well-being, and they’re consistently receptive to our concerns. I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support available until later in the year, and I wish I had taken advantage of it sooner. One of the best choices I made was to become a year well-being representative. This position allowed me to collaborate closely with staff and gain a deeper understanding of the support systems in place. Cultivating those relationships has been invaluable, and I’d encourage anyone to engage and connect with the people who are here to assist you. You can never have too much support.
Overall, this year has taught me that the anxiety I felt before and during the onset of university was not only prevalent but also manageable. With the appropriate support—from both staff and fellow students—I’ve learned that I’m never truly alone. And perhaps most importantly, I’ve discovered how to appreciate the university experience, even amidst the pressures of exams and deadlines.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London