Written by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months prior, in October 2022, I found myself engulfed in anxiety, uncertainty, and a significant degree of fear as I geared up to embark on my first year of studying Materials Science and Engineering at Imperial College London. As a person who has often been rather shy and introverted, jumping headfirst into such a monumental life change was entirely outside my comfort zone. Reflecting back, I recognize a year that was not just packed with academic and personal obstacles but also one filled with remarkable growth, learning, and enjoyment. So, what insights have I gained, and what is my current situation?
One of the most daunting challenges I encountered early on was forging friendships. If you are a prospective student, this may be a concern for you as well. I vividly remember my first day in student housing, where I stayed cloistered in my room, too apprehensive to venture out and introduce myself. However, fast forward to now, and I can sincerely say I’ve formed some of the finest friendships I’ve ever experienced—people who feel like a second family. What changed? It all began with brief conversations and shared experiences. I discovered that taking that first leap—regardless of how uncomfortable it may feel—is worthwhile. And if you don’t feel ready at the start, that’s perfectly fine. There are numerous ice-breakers and social events aimed at helping you connect with others. Most importantly, I found that being your true self is the most effective way to find your like-minded community. With such a varied student population, you’re sure to encounter others who resonate with your interests and values.
Another significant shift was adapting to the academic workload. The leap from A-levels was apparent, and the transition from the first to second term introduced an even steeper learning curve. It’s easy to feel daunted or to compare yourself to peers who appear to be managing more effectively. However, one of the key lessons I learned was that everyone is navigating similar struggles. If you’re having difficulty grasping a concept, it’s likely that others are as well. Don’t hesitate to seek assistance—whether from classmates or lecturers. Learning to reach out for support is one of the essential skills you can cultivate during your first year.
In terms of support, I cannot emphasize enough the positive attributes of the staff within the Materials department. They truly are invested in the well-being and success of students, and they’re always receptive to feedback and open communication. I didn’t fully utilize the available pastoral support until later in the academic year, and I wish I had taken advantage of it sooner. Early on, I stepped up and became a year well-being representative. This role allowed me to collaborate closely with staff and gain a deeper understanding of the resources at our disposal. Fostering those connections has been remarkably fulfilling, and I’d recommend everyone to get involved in similar ways. The support is there—you just need to take advantage of it.
All in all, this year has illuminated the fact that the anxieties and fears I harbored prior to university were typical but often unfounded. With the proper support and mindset, those feelings can be transcended. I’ve realized that I am never genuinely alone, and it is indeed possible to excel academically while still enjoying the experiences of university life, even during trying periods such as exams and deadlines.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London