Written by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months prior, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with nerves, uncertainty, and a touch of fear as I readied myself for my first year of studying Materials Science and Engineering at Imperial College London. As someone who had always been rather timid and reserved, plunging into university life felt intimidating. Now, reflecting on the past academic year, I see a path enriched with personal development, challenges, and unforgettable experiences. So, what insights have I gained, and what is my current situation?
One of the most significant and daunting challenges I encountered early on was forging friendships. If you’re an incoming student, this might be a concern for you as well. I recall my initial day in my student accommodation—the term hadn’t even kicked off yet, and I spent the whole day in my room, too anxious to venture out and introduce myself. Fast forward to now, and I can proudly say I’ve made some of the best friends I’ve ever known. I’ve discovered a second family here at Imperial, both within my program and outside of it. It all began with a bit of casual conversation with others who were equally new and apprehensive. What I’ve realized is that taking that initial step is crucial. Even if you don’t feel prepared, there are plenty of ice-breakers and social functions designed to help you connect with others. Most importantly, be yourself—Imperial is filled with diverse individuals, and you’re bound to meet those who share your interests and values.
Another significant obstacle was adapting to the academic demands. The transition from A-levels was noticeable, and the leap from first to second term was even more pronounced. It’s easy to feel daunted or to compare yourself with others and think you’re lagging behind. However, one of the key lessons I learned is that everyone is experiencing similar challenges. If you’re finding it difficult to grasp something, chances are others are too. Don’t hesitate to seek assistance—whether from peers or faculty. Seeking support is one of the most valuable skills you can cultivate in your first year.
Speaking of support, I can’t praise the staff in the Materials department enough. They genuinely care about our success and welfare, and they’re always receptive to our concerns. Although I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support services until later in the year, I wish I had done so earlier. One of the best choices I made was to become a Year Wellbeing Representative. This role enabled me to build connections with staff and gain a deeper understanding of the support systems available. There are numerous ways to engage with staff, and doing so can greatly enhance your university experience. My most important takeaway? Don’t hesitate to utilize the resources available to you—there’s no such thing as too much support.
In summary, this year has shown me that the anxiety I felt before and during the onset of university was normal, but often unwarranted. With the right support from both peers and faculty, those feelings can be managed and overcome. I’ve learned that I’m never genuinely alone, and that enjoying university life is indeed possible—even amidst the pressures of exams and deadlines.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London