Written by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months prior, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with nerves, uncertainty, and quite a bit of fear as I geared up to embark on my first year of studying Materials Science and Engineering at Imperial. Being naturally a bit shy and reserved, plunging into an entirely new environment seemed intimidating. However, reflecting now, I recognize that this past year was brimming with personal development, challenges, and memorable experiences. So, what insights have I gained, and what is my current standing?
One of the most significant and daunting hurdles I encountered early on was forging friendships. If you’re a future student, this may be a concern for you as well. I distinctly recall spending my entire first day in student housing, tucked away in my room, too anxious to venture out and introduce myself. But fast forward to today, and I can proudly declare that I’ve formed some of the finest friendships I’ve ever experienced—friends who feel like family. All it required was a little small talk and the bravery to engage with others who were just as new and uncertain as I was. The essential lesson? Take that initial leap. Even if you don’t feel prepared, numerous ice-breakers and social gatherings are designed to facilitate connections. Most importantly, be authentic. With such a diverse community at Imperial, you’re sure to encounter individuals who resonate with your interests and values.
Another substantial adjustment was the academic demands. The transition from A-levels to university content was considerable—and the shift from the first to the second term felt even more pronounced. It’s easy to become overwhelmed or doubt your capabilities when you observe peers around you seemingly excelling. However, one thing that assisted me was recalling that everyone is navigating similar challenges. If you’re finding something difficult to grasp, chances are others are too. Don’t shy away from seeking assistance—whether from fellow students or faculty. Learning to ask for help is arguably one of the most essential skills you can cultivate in your first year.
Speaking of faculty, the support from the Materials department has been outstanding. The lecturers and support staff genuinely care about students’ success and are acutely aware of the hurdles we encounter. They keep lines of communication open throughout the year and are always ready to listen. I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support available until later in the year—and I wish I had taken advantage of it sooner. One of the wisest decisions I made was becoming a well-being representative for my year group. This role allowed me to connect with staff and gain a clearer understanding of the support mechanisms in place. There are numerous ways to foster relationships with staff, and doing so can significantly enrich your university journey. My suggestion? Take full advantage of the assistance available—you can never receive too much support.
In summary, this year has shown me that the anxiety and fear I experienced at the outset were typical—but not everlasting. With the appropriate support and mindset, those feelings can be conquered. I’ve realized that I’m never truly alone and that finding joy is possible, even amidst stressful periods like exams and deadlines.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London