Written by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, back in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, uncertainty, and a healthy dose of fear. I was on the verge of starting my first year in Materials Science and Engineering at Imperial College London. As an individual who has always been somewhat shy and introverted, plunging into an entirely new setting felt intimidating. Now, reflecting on the academic year, I can see a path marked by personal development, hurdles, and countless unforgettable moments. So, what insights have I gained, and what is my current situation?
One of the most daunting challenges I encountered early on was forming friendships. If you are an incoming student, this may be a concern for you as well. I recall spending my initial day in student housing confined to my room, too apprehensive to venture out and introduce myself. However, looking at where I am now, I can confidently state that I’ve forged some of the best friendships of my life—individuals who have become like a second family. What was beneficial? Just taking small steps. Engaging in a little small talk with others experiencing the same feelings proved invaluable. The essential takeaway here: take that first step. Even if you’re not entirely prepared, there are numerous ice-breakers and social activities created to facilitate connections. Most importantly, be authentic. With such a varied student demographic, you’re sure to encounter people you resonate with.
Another significant transition was managing the academic demands and heightened complexity of the coursework. The shift from A-levels to university was substantial—and the transition from the first to the second term was even more striking. It’s easy to feel inundated or to compare yourself to others, leading to feelings of inadequacy. However, one of the most helpful realizations for me was recognizing that everyone is experiencing the same challenges. If you find yourself struggling with a concept, it’s likely that others are facing similar difficulties. Don’t hesitate to seek out assistance—whether it’s from classmates or instructors. Learning to ask for help is arguably one of the most crucial skills you can cultivate in your first year.
Speaking of instructors, I must emphasize the remarkable support from the Materials department. The faculty and staff truly care about our success and well-being. They recognize the hurdles students encounter and are always ready to communicate. Although I didn’t utilize the pastoral support until later in the year, I wish I had reached out sooner. One of the wisest choices I made was becoming a year well-being representative. This position allowed me to collaborate closely with staff and gain deeper insight into the support systems available. There are numerous ways to foster relationships with faculty, and doing so can greatly enrich your university journey. My recommendation? Fully leverage the support resources available—you can never have too much help.
In summary, this year has shown me that the anxieties and uncertainties I held at the start were natural but often baseless. With the backing of friends, faculty, and the broader university community, I’ve come to understand that I’m never truly alone. I’ve also learned how to juggle the demands of exams and deadlines while still enjoying student life. It has been a transformative year, and I look forward to what lies ahead.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London