Written by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, uncertainty, and a healthy amount of fear. I was on the verge of starting my first year in Materials Science and Engineering at Imperial College London. As someone who has typically been rather shy and introverted, jumping into university life felt like a lot to handle. However, reflecting on the academic year now, I see a path rich in growth, challenges, and memorable moments. So, what insights did I gain along the way—and what is my current situation?
One of the most daunting challenges I encountered at the beginning was forging friendships. If you’re a potential student, this might be a concern for you as well. I vividly recall my first day in student housing, right before classes began—I spent the entire day in my room, too anxious to venture out and meet anyone. Fast forward to today, and I can proudly say I’ve formed some of the best friendships of my life. I’ve discovered a second family here at Imperial, which all kicked off with a few straightforward chats with others who were just as apprehensive as I was. What I’ve realized is this: take the plunge early. Even if you don’t feel ready, there are numerous icebreakers and events aimed at helping you meet others. Above all, be authentic. With such a varied student population, you’re sure to encounter individuals who resonate with your interests and values.
Another significant adjustment was the academic demands and the complexity of the material. The transition from A-levels was evident—and the leap from the first to the second term was even more pronounced. It’s easy to feel swamped or to second-guess yourself when you see others studying with assurance. But what helped me was reminding myself that everyone faces similar challenges. If you’re having difficulty grasping a concept, there’s a good chance others are as well. Don’t hesitate to seek assistance—whether it’s from fellow students or instructors. Learning to request help has probably been the most crucial skill I acquired during my first year.
On the subject of support, I can’t commend the staff in the Materials department enough. They genuinely care about our success and welfare, and they’re always ready to listen to our concerns. Although I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support until later in the year, I regret not reaching out sooner. One proactive step I took early on was becoming a year well-being representative. This position allowed me to cultivate relationships with faculty members, which has proven tremendously beneficial. There are countless avenues to connect with staff, and doing this can significantly enhance your university experience. My key takeaway? Capitalize on the support that’s available—you can never have too much assistance.
All in all, this year has shown me that the anxiety and doubts I harbored before starting university were normal, yet manageable. With the appropriate support and mindset, those feelings can be alleviated. I’ve discovered that I’m never truly alone, and it’s fully possible to enjoy university life—even amidst the pressures of exams and deadlines.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London