Written by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
In October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, uncertainty, and a considerable degree of fear as I geared up to embark on my first year studying Materials Science and Engineering at Imperial College London. As a person who has always been quite introverted and reserved, immersing myself into university life seemed quite intimidating. Now, reflecting on the past academic year, I recognize a path filled with development, challenges, and unforgettable moments. So, what have I discovered—and what is my current status?
One of the most significant and daunting obstacles I encountered early on was the task of making friends. For many freshmen, this is a substantial worry, and I was no different. I recall spending my first day in my student accommodation keeping to myself, too anxious to introduce myself to anyone. However, fast forward to today, and I can proudly state that I’ve formed some of the most meaningful friendships of my life. These bonds have become like a second family to me, all initiated through simple chats and shared experiences. What I came to understand is that taking that initial step—regardless of its size—can pave the way for significant connections. And if you’re not quite ready immediately, that’s perfectly fine. There is an abundance of ice-breaker activities and chances to meet new people. Most importantly, stay true to yourself. With such a varied student population, you’re sure to encounter individuals who resonate with your interests and values.
Another major challenge was adapting to the academic demands and the intricacies of the course content. The leap from A-levels to university was quite stark, and the transition from the first to the second term was even more profound. It’s easy to feel inundated or to measure yourself against peers who appear to be coping better. But one of the most essential lessons I absorbed was that everyone is experiencing similar struggles. If you’re having difficulty grasping a concept, chances are others are feeling the same way. Don’t hesitate to seek assistance—whether it’s from classmates or faculty members. Learning to reach out for help is one of the most crucial skills you can cultivate in your first year.
On the topic of faculty, I can’t emphasize enough how encouraging the Materials department has been. The instructors and support staff genuinely wish for students to thrive and are always receptive to feedback and communication. Although I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support until later in the year, I wish I had taken advantage of it sooner. At the beginning, I took a step forward by becoming a year well-being representative, which allowed me to foster connections with staff and gain a better understanding of the support systems in place. Familiarizing yourself with your lecturers and tutors can be immensely advantageous, and there are numerous ways to accomplish this. My key takeaway here? Take full advantage of the resources and support available to you—you can never receive too much assistance.
In summary, this year has shown me that the apprehension I felt before and during university was frequently unfounded. With the appropriate support and mindset, those anxieties can be surmounted. I’ve realized that I’m never truly isolated, and that it’s entirely feasible to relish university life—even amid the stresses of exams and deadlines.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London