Written by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Back in October 2022, ten months ago, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, uncertainty, and quite a bit of fear. As I was about to embark on my first year studying Materials Science and Engineering at Imperial College London, the thought of entering such a new and unfamiliar setting was daunting for someone who had always been rather shy and reserved. Looking back now, I can see a year filled with personal development, challenges, and unforgettable moments. So, what insights have I gained—and where do I stand now?
One of the most significant and daunting challenges I encountered early on was establishing friendships. If you’re a prospective student, this might also be a major concern for you. I recall spending my entire first day in student housing secluded in my room, too anxious to venture out and introduce myself. However, today I can proudly say I’ve made some of the best friends of my life—individuals who have become like a second family to me. It all began with simple chats and shared experiences. What I’ve realized is that taking that first step—regardless of how minor—is truly worthwhile. Even if you feel unprepared at first, there are numerous ice-breakers and social events designed to help foster connections. Most importantly, always be yourself. With such a varied community at Imperial, you will definitely find people who resonate with your interests and values.
Another significant change I faced was adapting to the academic workload and the complexities of the course material. The transition from A-levels to university-level education was substantial, and the leap from the first to the second term felt even more drastic. It’s easy to feel like you’re lagging behind when you observe others studying fervently or grasping concepts more swiftly than you. But a helpful perspective for me was recognizing that everyone is experiencing similar struggles. If you’re finding it difficult to comprehend something, it’s likely that others are too. Don’t hesitate to reach out for assistance—whether from your peers or your lecturers. Learning to seek help is arguably one of the most important skills you can cultivate in your first year.
This leads me to another crucial point: the staff in the Materials department are fantastic. They genuinely care about students’ well-being and success and are always open to feedback and dialogue. I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support available until later in the academic year, and I wish I had taken advantage of it earlier. Early in the year, I took a step and became a well-being representative for my cohort. This role allowed me to build connections with faculty members and gain a better understanding of the support systems available. There are countless ways to interact with staff, and doing so can greatly enrich your university experience. My recommendation? Make the most of the help and resources at your disposal—you can never have too much support.
In summary, this year has shown me that the anxiety and uncertainties I felt at the beginning were normal yet often unnecessary. With the backing of my peers, faculty, and the broader university community, I’ve come to understand that I’m never genuinely alone. I’ve also learned how to balance hard work with enjoying life—even during stressful periods like exams and deadlines.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London