Written by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I was engulfed in anxiety, uncertainty, and a pervasive sense of fear about the future. I was on the brink of embarking on my first year in Materials Science and Engineering at Imperial College London. As an individual who had always leaned towards shyness and reserve, plunging into this new phase of life was quite daunting. Reflecting on it now, I see a year brimming with personal development, hurdles, and unforgettable moments. So, what insights have I gained—and where do I currently stand?
One of the most significant and daunting challenges I encountered early on was forming friendships. If you’re a prospective student perusing this, you might resonate with my experience. I vividly recall my initial day in student housing, just before the term began—I spent the day within my room, too apprehensive to venture out and meet others. Fast forward to now, and I can assertively say that I’ve forged some of the best friendships of my life. I’ve discovered a second family here at Imperial, all beginning with a few casual chats with those who felt just as uncertain as I did. What I’ve come to understand is that taking that initial step is worthwhile. Even if you feel unprepared, there are numerous ice-breaking events and social gatherings designed to help you engage with others. Most importantly, stay true to yourself. With such a varied student demographic, you’re likely to encounter individuals who share your passions and principles.
Another significant transition was managing the academic demands and the complexity of the course material. The transition from A-levels to university was considerable—and the jump from the first to second term felt even larger. It’s all too easy to feel inundated or to measure yourself against others who seem to be coping more effectively. But here’s what aided me: remembering that we are all navigating similar challenges. If you find yourself struggling with comprehension, there’s a good chance you’re not alone. Don’t be hesitant to seek assistance—whether from classmates or faculty. Cultivating the ability to ask for help is among the most crucial skills you can acquire in your first year.
Speaking of faculty, I can’t express enough positive remarks about the teaching and support personnel in the Materials department. They sincerely care about our achievements and are always receptive to input. They recognize the struggles students encounter and are consistently striving to assist us. Although I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support available until later in the year, I wish I had taken advantage of it sooner. One of the finest choices I made was becoming a year well-being representative. This position allowed me to forge connections with staff and gain a deeper understanding of the support structures available. There are countless opportunities to connect with your lecturers and tutors, and doing so can significantly enhance your university experience. My recommendation? Take full advantage of the support available—you can never receive too much assistance.
All in all, this year has shown me that the anxiety I experienced prior to and throughout university was frequently unwarranted. With appropriate support from both staff and fellow students, those jitters can be effectively managed. I’ve come to realize that I’m never truly alone, and that it’s entirely possible to relish university life—even amidst the pressures of examinations and deadlines.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London