Written by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with nerves, uncertainty, and quite a bit of fear. I was on the verge of starting my first year of studying Materials Science and Engineering at Imperial College London. As an individual who had always been rather shy and introverted, plunging into university life seemed intimidating. However, now that I reflect on the academic year, I recognize a journey filled with growth, challenges, and memorable experiences. So, what have I discovered, and what is my status now?
One of the most significant and daunting challenges I encountered early on was forming friendships. This is something many new students fret over, and I was no exception. On the day I settled into my accommodation—right before the term began—I spent the whole day in my room, too nervous to venture out and meet new people. Fast forward to today, and I can proudly state I’ve made some of the finest friends I’ve ever had. I’ve found a second family here at Imperial, especially among my peers in the course. All it required was a little light conversation and the bravery to connect with others who were just as new and uncertain as I was. The most important takeaway? Take that leap early. Even if you’re feeling unprepared, there are plenty of icebreakers and social gatherings to help you meet others. And above all, be yourself—Imperial is full of diverse individuals, and you’re sure to find your crowd.
Another significant adjustment was the academic workload and the complexity of the course material. The shift from A-levels to university was substantial, and the transition from the first to the second term was even more intense. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed or to compare yourself to peers who appear to have everything under control. However, one thing that aided me was the realization that everyone is experiencing similar challenges. If you’re having trouble grasping something, it’s likely that others are too. Don’t hesitate to seek assistance—whether from your fellow students or the teaching staff. Learning to reach out for support is one of the most valuable skills you can cultivate in your first year.
On the topic of support, the staff in the Materials department are exceptional. They genuinely prioritize students’ well-being 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 done so earlier. Initially, I took the initiative to become a year well-being representative, which allowed me to foster connections with staff members. That experience was tremendously fulfilling and revealed just how approachable and supportive the faculty can be. There are numerous avenues to connect with staff, and doing so can significantly enhance your university experience. My recommendation? Make the most of the support available—you can never have too much of it.
In summary, this year has taught me that the anxiety I felt before and at the start of university was normal but often unwarranted. With the vast array of support from both staff and fellow students, I’ve learned that I’m never truly alone. I’ve also figured out how to balance the demands of exams and deadlines with moments of enjoyment and fun.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London