Written by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with nerves, uncertainty, and quite a bit of fear. I was on the verge of starting my first year studying Materials Science and Engineering at Imperial, and the thought of venturing into something so new and unfamiliar was intimidating—especially for someone like me, who had always been relatively introverted. Now, reflecting on my first academic year, I view a journey filled with personal growth, challenges, and memorable experiences. So, what insights have I gained, and what’s my current situation?
One of the most significant and 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 moving into my accommodation a few days prior to the term and spending an entire day hiding away in my room, too anxious to step out and introduce myself. Fast forward to now, and I can genuinely say I’ve forged some of the most meaningful friendships I’ve ever had—people who feel like an extended family. What shifted? I took a chance and initiated small conversations with others who were just as new and uncertain as I was. My key takeaway? Don’t hesitate to take that initial leap. Even if you don’t feel prepared, numerous ice-breakers and social events are tailored to help you connect. And above all, be yourself—Imperial is home to a diverse range of individuals, and you’ll surely find others who share your interests and values.
Another significant adjustment was the academic workload and the rigorous level of difficulty. There was undoubtedly a noticeable increase from A-levels, and the shift from the first to the second term was even more challenging. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed or to compare yourself with your peers and feel as if you’re lagging behind. But here’s what proved helpful for me: remembering that everyone is experiencing similar challenges. If you’re grappling with a particular concept, it’s likely that others are as well. Don’t shy away from seeking assistance—whether it be from classmates or faculty. Learning to ask for help is one of the most valuable lessons I gleaned from my first year.
Speaking of faculty, the support from the Materials department has been outstanding. The lecturers and tutors genuinely care about our success and well-being. They understand the hurdles students face and are consistently open to feedback and dialogue. I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support available until later in the year, and I wish I had taken advantage of it sooner. Early on, I took the initiative to become a year well-being representative, which allowed me to collaborate closely with staff and gain better insights into the support systems available. Building rapport with your lecturers and tutors can be extremely advantageous, and I highly encourage making the effort to connect with them. The support is accessible—don’t hesitate to leverage it.
In summary, this year has shown me that the anxiety and nervousness I felt at the beginning were entirely normal—and often, unnecessary. With the right support from both staff and fellow students, those feelings can be managed and even transformed into something positive. I discovered that I’m never truly alone, and that it’s entirely possible to enjoy university life, even while balancing exams and deadlines.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London