Written by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
In October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, doubt, and a significant level of apprehension. I was on the verge of starting my first year in Materials Science and Engineering at Imperial College London, and the thought of venturing into unfamiliar territory felt quite intimidating—especially for someone like me, who had always been rather shy and reserved. Now, almost a year later, I can reflect on an academic year that has been rich with growth, hurdles, and memorable moments. So, what insights have I gained, and where do I stand now?
One of the primary hurdles I encountered at the outset was forming friendships. For many newcomers, this can be the most daunting aspect of commencing university. I recall spending my initial day in the student accommodation confined to my room, too anxious to step out and introduce myself. But fast forward to now, and I can affirm that I’ve cultivated some of the most meaningful friendships I’ve ever experienced—both within my program and throughout the university. I’ve discovered a second family here at Imperial, and it all began with a few straightforward conversations with individuals who were just as uncertain as I was. The crucial takeaway? Make that first move. Even if you feel hesitant, there are numerous ice-breakers and social gatherings designed to aid you in connecting with others. And above all, be authentic. With such a diverse student community, you are sure to find people who resonate with your interests and principles.
Another significant transition was adapting to the academic demands. The leap from A-levels was evident, and the shift from the first to the second term introduced an even steeper learning curve. It’s easy to feel inundated or to compare yourself to peers who appear to be managing better. However, I learned that everyone is facing similar challenges, even if they don’t always reveal it. If you’re having trouble grasping something, it’s likely that others are as well. Don’t hesitate to seek assistance—it’s one of the most vital skills you can cultivate in your first year. Whether it’s your classmates or your instructors, there’s always someone ready to lend a hand.
On the topic of support, the staff in the Materials department have been exceptional. They genuinely prioritize our success and are consistently receptive to feedback and communication. Although I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support until later in the year, I wish I had reached out earlier. One of the wisest decisions I made was volunteering as a year well-being representative. This position allowed me to foster connections with staff and gain a clearer understanding of the support systems available. There are countless avenues to engage with faculty, and doing so can significantly enhance your university experience. My suggestion? Make the most of every support opportunity accessible—you can never receive too much assistance.
In summary, this year has demonstrated to me that the worries I had before embarking on my university journey were not only prevalent but also manageable. With the appropriate support and mindset, I’ve learned to balance academic responsibilities with personal enjoyment. Most importantly, I’ve realized that I’m never genuinely alone in this endeavor.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London