Written by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months prior, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, fear, and uncertainty regarding the future. I was on the brink of commencing my first year in Materials Science and Engineering at Imperial College London. As someone who had always been shy and introverted, venturing into a completely unfamiliar setting felt quite intimidating. However, reflecting on the past year, I realize it has been filled with personal development, challenges, and plenty of enjoyable moments. So, what insights have I gained, and what is my current situation?
One of the most significant and daunting challenges I encountered initially was forming friendships. If you are an incoming student, this might be one of your primary concerns as well. I vividly recall my first day settling into student housing—classes had not even begun yet—and I spent the whole day in my room, too anxious to venture out and meet new people. Fast forward to now, and I can assertively say that I have developed some of the most wonderful friendships I’ve ever had, both within my course and throughout the university. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial. And it all began with a bit of casual conversation with others who were just as anxious as I was.
What was my takeaway from that experience? The start of the year is an ideal opportunity to take a leap of faith. Even if you don’t feel prepared, there are numerous events and ice-breakers designed to facilitate connections. Most importantly, remain authentic. With such a diverse student population, you’re likely to find individuals who share your interests and values.
Another significant adjustment was the academic demands and the complexity of the content. There was undoubtedly a noticeable increase from A-levels, and the transition from the first term to the second was even more apparent. It’s easy to feel inundated or to compare yourself to others who appear to be coping better. However, one of the key lessons I learned was that everyone is experiencing similar challenges. If you’re having trouble grasping a concept, chances are others are too. Therefore, don’t hesitate to seek assistance—from your peers, your lecturers, or your tutors. Learning to ask for help is among the most valuable skills you can cultivate in your first year.
Speaking of support, the staff in the Materials department have been remarkable. They genuinely care about students’ success and are fully aware of the challenges we encounter. They’re approachable, understanding, and always receptive to feedback. I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support until later in the year, but I wish I had reached out sooner. Early on, I took a bold step by becoming a wellbeing representative for my cohort. That role allowed me to build connections with staff members, which proved to be incredibly advantageous. There are many avenues to engage with your lecturers and tutors, and doing so can significantly enhance your university journey. If there’s one piece of advice I would offer, it’s this: take advantage of the support available to you. You can never have too much assistance.
In summary, this year has shown me that the apprehension I felt before and during the beginning of university was entirely natural—and often unwarranted. There are extensive support systems available, from staff to fellow students, and you are never truly on your own. I’ve also learned how to navigate the pressures of exams and deadlines while still enjoying university life. It’s been a transformative year, and I’m eager to discover what lies ahead.
By Guest Blogger
Categorized under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London