Written by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, uncertainty, and quite a bit of apprehension. I was on the verge of starting my first year in Materials Science and Engineering at Imperial College London, and the prospect of plunging into something entirely new and unfamiliar was intimidating—particularly for someone who had always been rather shy and reserved. Now, reflecting on the academic year, I can see a path filled with personal development, obstacles, and a great deal of enjoyment. So, what insights have I gained, and what is my current state?
One of the most significant and daunting challenges I encountered early on was establishing friendships. If you’re an incoming student reading this, you might share the same feelings of anxiety. I vividly recall my first day in student housing, just prior to the start of term—I spent the entire day in my room, far too anxious to venture out and introduce myself. But fast forward to now, and I can proudly say that I’ve formed some of the best friendships I’ve ever had. Through this program and my university experience, I’ve discovered a second family. It all commenced with a bit of casual conversation and the bravery to reach out to others who were equally new and uncertain like me. What I’ve learned is that taking that initial step—regardless of how minor—can make a substantial impact. And if you’re not fully prepared at once, that’s perfectly fine as well. Numerous ice-breakers and social activities are arranged to help you acclimatize. Most importantly, be your authentic self. With such a varied student community, you’re sure to find individuals you resonate with.
Another significant adjustment was navigating the academic workload and the leap in difficulty from A-levels. The transition from the first semester to the second was particularly striking. It’s easy to feel inundated or to compare yourself to others and feel as though you’re trailing behind. However, one thing that assisted me during those times was the realization that everyone is experiencing similar challenges. If you’re having trouble grasping a concept, it’s likely that others are too. Don’t hesitate to seek assistance—whether it’s from peers or lecturers. Developing the ability to ask for help is probably the most precious skill I acquired during my first year.
Regarding support, the staff in the Materials department have been phenomenal. They sincerely care about our achievements and welfare, and they make a genuine effort to maintain connections with students throughout the year. Although I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support until later in the academic year, I wish I had done so earlier. In the beginning, I took a chance and became a year well-being representative, which allowed me the chance to interact with staff members more closely. That experience was invaluable. There are numerous ways to forge relationships with staff, and doing so can genuinely enrich your university experience. My suggestion? Make the most of all the support available—you can never have too much.
In summary, this year has shown me that the anxiety I experienced at the outset—and even during the year—was often unwarranted. With an abundance of support systems in place, from both staff and fellow students, I’ve learned that I’m never genuinely alone. I’ve also figured out how to juggle the pressures of exams and deadlines while embracing university life.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London