Written by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, back in October 2022, I was consumed by nerves, uncertainty, and a fair amount of fear as I got ready to embark on my journey as a first-year student in the Materials Science and Engineering MEng program at Imperial College London. Being someone who had always been introverted and quiet, stepping into university life felt intimidating. However, reflecting on the past year, I recognize a period filled with 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 obstacles I encountered early on was forging friendships. If you’re a potential student, this might be a concern for you too—and I totally relate. On the day I moved into my residence, just days before the semester commenced, I felt so overwhelmed that I spent the whole day in my room, too anxious to introduce myself to anyone. Fast forward to now, and I can confidently say I’ve formed some of the most remarkable friendships I’ve ever had—individuals who feel like a second family. All it required was a little small talk with others who were just as uncertain as I was. The essential lesson here? Take that jump early. Even if you don’t feel prepared, there will be numerous ice-breakers and events to facilitate connections with others. And most importantly, be true to yourself. With such a diverse community at Imperial, you’re bound to find others who share your interests and values.
Another notable challenge was adapting to the academic demands and the intricacies of the course material. The transition from A-levels was evident, and the leap from the first to the second semester was even more intense. It’s easy to feel as if you’re lagging behind when you observe others studying with confidence. But one thing that assisted me was the awareness that everyone is in a similar situation. If you’re having difficulty grasping something, it’s likely that others are too. So don’t hesitate to seek assistance—whether it’s from your peers or your instructors. Learning to ask for help has probably been the most crucial skill I acquired in my first year.
This brings me to another highlight of my journey: the remarkable support from the faculty in the Materials department. They genuinely prioritize our success and welfare, and they’re always receptive to our concerns. Although I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support until later in the year, I now wish I had reached out earlier. One step I did take early on was becoming a year well-being representative. This position allowed me to build connections with faculty members—something I found immensely beneficial. There are various ways to connect with your lecturers and tutors, and doing so can significantly enhance your university experience. My takeaway? Don’t hesitate to leverage the support available to you. You can never have too much assistance.
In summary, this year has shown me that the anxiety I felt before and during the start of university was often unfounded. With the backing of faculty and fellow students, those concerns became manageable. I’ve learned that I’m never truly alone, and that it’s possible to embrace university life—even amidst the pressures of exams and deadlines.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London