Written by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months back, in October 2022, I was engulfed with anxiety, uncertainty, and a considerable degree of fear. I was on the verge of commencing my first year in Materials Science and Engineering at Imperial College London, and stepping into the unfamiliar felt daunting. As someone who had always been introverted and reserved, plunging into university life was a significant leap outside my comfort zone. Now, reflecting on the academic year, I perceive a journey brimming with personal development, obstacles, and memorable experiences. So, what insights did I gain, and what is my current situation?
One of the foremost and most daunting challenges I encountered early on was forming friendships. If you’re an incoming student, this might be a concern for you as well. I recall my initial day in student accommodation—mere days before the term officially commenced—I dedicated the entire day in my room, too apprehensive to venture out and introduce myself. Fast forward to now, and I can assertively say I’ve forged some of the closest friendships I’ve ever experienced. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, and it all initiated with brief conversations and collective experiences. The crucial takeaway? Take that initial step. Even if you’re not feeling prepared, there are numerous ice-breakers and social gatherings aimed at helping you connect with others. And most importantly, remain authentic. With such a varied student population, you’re sure to find individuals who resonate with your interests and values.
Another significant obstacle was adapting to the academic workload and the intricacies of the course material. The shift from A-levels to university-level learning was substantial—and the transition from the first to the second term was even more intense. It’s easy to feel as though you’re lagging behind when you observe others studying diligently and seemingly comprehending everything effortlessly. However, one aspect that aided me was the realization that everyone is navigating similar waters. If you’re grappling with a concept, it’s likely that others are as well. Don’t be reluctant to seek assistance—whether from your peers or from the teaching staff. Learning to ask for help is one of the most crucial lessons I gleaned from my first year.
Regarding support, I can’t express enough positivity about the personnel in the Materials department. They truly care about our success and well-being, and they’re always willing to listen to our concerns. I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support available until later in the academic year, and I wish I had reached out sooner. One proactive step I took early on was becoming a Year Wellbeing Representative. This position afforded me the chance to cultivate relationships with staff members, which turned out to be incredibly beneficial. There are numerous avenues to connect with staff, and doing so can significantly enhance your university experience. My suggestion? Leverage the support systems available to you—you can never receive too much assistance.
In summary, this year has imparted to me that the anxieties and fears I harbored at the outset were natural, yet often unwarranted. With the backing of friends, staff, and the broader university community, I realized that I was never genuinely alone. I also learned how to juggle the demands of academic life with enjoyment and personal development.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London