Written by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I was overcome with anxiety, uncertainty, and a significant amount of fear as I geared up to start my first year studying Materials Science and Engineering at Imperial College London. Having been naturally shy and reserved, stepping into the unknown felt completely outside my comfort bubble. Now, reflecting on the year, I view it as a journey rich in personal development, obstacles, and memorable moments. So, what insights have I gained, and where do I find myself now?
One of the most daunting and significant challenges I encountered early on was the task of making friends. If you’re an incoming student, this is likely a concern for you as well. I recall my first day in student housing—I remained in my room the entire day, too anxious to go out and introduce myself. But fast forward to today, and I can confidently say that I’ve formed some of the best friendships of my life. These bonds have become like a second family for me, and all it required was initiating a few simple conversations with others who were equally new and uncertain. The crucial takeaway? Take that initial step. Even if you feel unprepared, there are numerous ice-breakers and social gatherings to aid in connecting with others. Most critically, be authentic. With such a varied student community, you’re sure to meet people who resonate with your interests and principles.
Another significant challenge was adapting to the academic demands and level of difficulty. There was a clear leap from A-levels, and the shift from the first to the second term brought additional intensity. It’s easy to feel as though you’re lagging or not measuring up, especially when you observe others around you studying diligently. However, the reality is that everyone is experiencing similar feelings. If you’re finding it tough to grasp something, it’s likely that many others are too. Don’t hesitate to seek assistance—whether from your peers or the faculty. Learning to seek support is one of the most beneficial skills you can cultivate in your first year.
On the subject of support, the faculty in the Department of Materials are outstanding. They truly care about the success and well-being of students, and they’re consistently receptive to input. I didn’t fully utilize the available pastoral support until later in the year, but I wish I had done so earlier. One proactive step I took at the start was becoming a well-being representative for my cohort. This role allowed me to forge connections with faculty members, which proved to be immensely rewarding. There are various ways to engage with faculty, and doing so can significantly enrich your university experience. My recommendation? Fully utilize the support systems provided—you can never have too much assistance.
In summary, this year has shown me that the fears and uncertainties I harbored at the outset were frequently unfounded. With the encouragement of peers and faculty, I’ve come to realize that I’m never facing challenges alone. More importantly, I’ve learned how to strike a balance between academic rigor and personal enjoyment and growth. University can sometimes feel daunting, but it’s also a place where you can truly flourish if you embrace the experience.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London