Written by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months prior, back in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, uncertainty, and quite a bit of fear about what lay ahead. I was on the verge of starting my first year in Materials Science and Engineering at Imperial College London, and the thought of plunging into something so fresh and uncharted was intimidating—especially for someone like me, who had always been a bit more introverted. Now, as I look back on this past academic year, I see a journey filled with personal development, challenges, and unforgettable memories. So, what have I discovered, and what is my current situation?
One of the most significant and daunting hurdles I encountered early on was forming friendships. For many incoming students, this can be one of the most anxiety-inducing aspects of commencing university. I recall spending my entire first day in my accommodation lurking in my room, too nervous to emerge and introduce myself. But fast forward to now, and I can sincerely say I’ve forged some of the closest friendships I’ve ever experienced—individuals who feel like a second family. All it required was a little small talk and the bravery to connect with others who were equally new and uncertain. The vital takeaway here? Take that initial step. Even if you don’t feel prepared, there are numerous ice-breakers and events designed to help you meet others. And most importantly, be true to yourself. With such a varied student population, you’re sure to find individuals who resonate with your interests and values.
Another substantial shift was managing the academic workload and the leap in difficulty from A-levels. The shift from the first to second term was notably intense. It’s all too easy to feel overwhelmed or to compare yourself to peers who seem to be coping better. But one thing that aided me was reminding myself that everyone is experiencing similar struggles. If you’re finding something hard to grasp, others probably are too. Don’t hesitate to reach out for assistance—whether it’s from classmates or from the teaching staff. Learning to seek help is among the most valuable skills you can cultivate in your first year.
Regarding staff, the support from the Materials department has been remarkable. The lecturers and staff genuinely care about our success and well-being. They recognize the challenges students encounter and are consistently open to feedback and communication. I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support available until later in the year, and I regret not doing so earlier. Initially, I took a bold step by becoming a year well-being representative, which provided me the opportunity to collaborate closely with staff and gain a better understanding of the support systems available. Establishing those connections has been immensely fulfilling, and I’d encourage every student to engage with their department—it can lead to significant benefits.
In summary, this year has taught me that the anxiety I experienced before and during the start of university was normal, but often unwarranted. With the backing of staff and fellow students, those nerves became manageable. I’ve realized that I’m never truly alone and that it’s feasible to relish university life—even in the face of exams and deadlines.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London