Written by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I was engulfed in nerves, uncertainty, and quite a bit of fear. I was on the brink of starting my first year in Materials Science and Engineering at Imperial College London, and the prospect of fully immersing myself in university life was intimidating—especially for someone like me, who has always been a bit introverted and reserved. Now, reflecting on the past academic year, I recognize a journey marked by growth, challenges, and unforgettable moments. So, what insights have I gained, and where do I stand now?
One of the most significant and daunting hurdles I encountered early on was forming friendships. If you’re a prospective student, this could be a concern for you as well. I recall my first day moving into student housing—I spent the entirety of the day in my room, too anxious to go outside and introduce myself. But fast forward to today, and I can proudly say I’ve formed some of the best friendships I’ve ever had. These individuals have become like a second family. What made the difference? Simply initiating conversations with others who were equally new and unsure. I learned that taking that first step is crucial. Even if you don’t feel prepared, there are numerous ice-breakers and events intended to help you connect with others. Most importantly, I realized that being genuine is the best approach. With such a diverse community at Imperial, you are certain to meet people who share your passions and values.
Another significant challenge was adapting to the academic demands and complexity. There was definitely an elevation from A-levels, and the transition from the first to the second term was even more pronounced. It’s easy to become overwhelmed or to compare yourself to peers who appear to be handling things more efficiently. However, one of the most valuable lessons I learned was that everyone is navigating similar difficulties. If you’re struggling to grasp a concept, it’s likely that others are as well. Don’t hesitate to seek assistance—whether from your classmates or the faculty. Learning to reach out for help is probably the most vital skill I developed during my first year.
Speaking of support, I cannot emphasize enough the positive impact of the staff within the Materials department. They truly care about the well-being and success of students. They understand the challenges we encounter and are always receptive to feedback and open communication. I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support available until later in the year, and I regret not doing so sooner. Early on, I took an initiative and became a year well-being representative, which allowed me to collaborate closely with staff and build familiarity with them. Forming those connections has been immensely fulfilling, and I would encourage anyone to engage in similar roles. The support exists—you just have to take advantage of it.
All in all, this year has shown me that the anxiety and uncertainty I experienced at the outset were entirely normal—and more importantly, manageable. With the backing of friends, staff, and the broader university community, I’ve discovered that I’m never truly alone. I’ve also learned to balance the stresses of exams and deadlines with enjoying life at university.
Looking forward, I feel more assured and enthusiastic about what lies ahead. And to anyone about to embark on their own university adventure: take the plunge, stay true to yourself, and don’t shy away from seeking help. You’ve got this.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London