Written by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I experienced a whirlwind of nerves, uncertainty, and a healthy dose of fear as I geared up to embark on my first year of studying Materials Science and Engineering at Imperial College London. As someone who has always been rather shy and introverted, plunging into university life felt quite intimidating. Yet, reflecting on the past year, I recognize it has been a period of transformation—rich in personal development, challenges, and memorable experiences. So, what insights have I gained, and where do I stand now?
One of the most formidable and daunting challenges at the beginning was making friends. If you’re a potential student, this could very well be one of your major concerns too. On the day I moved into my accommodation—only a few days before the term commenced—I spent the whole day in my room, too anxious to venture out and introduce myself. Fast forward to now, and I can proudly say I’ve forged some of the best friendships I’ve ever known. The individuals I’ve encountered in my course and throughout the university have turned into a second family for me. It all began with casual conversations and the mutual experience of being newcomers. What I’ve discovered is that taking that initial step, no matter how minor, can make a significant impact. And if you’re not prepared right away, that’s perfectly fine—there are numerous ice-breaker events and chances to connect. Most importantly, embrace your true self. With such a diverse community at Imperial, you’re sure to meet people who resonate with you.
Another major hurdle was adapting to the academic workload. The transition from A-levels to university academics was apparent, and the jump from the first term to the second was even more pronounced. It’s easy to feel inundated or to compare yourself to peers who seem to have everything under control. However, one of the most crucial lessons I learned is that everyone shares similar struggles. If you’re finding it hard to grasp a concept, it’s likely that others are facing the same difficulties. Don’t hesitate to seek assistance—whether from fellow students or instructors. Learning to ask for guidance is one of the most vital skills you can cultivate during your first year.
On the topic of staff, the academic and pastoral support within the Materials department has been outstanding. The lecturers and staff genuinely prioritize student well-being and are always receptive to feedback and communication. Although I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support until later in the year, I wish I had sought help sooner. In the early days, I took a brave step by becoming a year well-being representative, which allowed me to collaborate closely with staff and gain a deeper understanding of the existing support systems. Building those connections has been invaluable, and I would encourage every student to leverage the resources and support available—you can never have too much assistance.
All in all, this year has shown me that the anxieties and concerns I harbored—both prior to and during university—were quite normal, yet often unwarranted. With the proper support and attitude, they can be surmounted. I’ve realized that I’m never genuinely alone on this journey, and it’s feasible to discover joy and equilibrium even amid the strains of exams and deadlines.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London