Written by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months prior, in October 2022, I was consumed by nerves, apprehension, and a significant amount of anxiety. I was on the verge of starting my first year in Materials Science and Engineering at Imperial College London. As someone who had historically been rather shy and introverted, plunging into university life felt overwhelming. Yet, reflecting on the past year now, I recognize a period that has been transformative—filled with personal development, challenges, and memorable experiences. So, what insights have I gained, and what is my current situation?
One of the most significant and daunting hurdles I encountered early was forming friendships. If you’re an incoming student, this might also be a concern for you. I vividly recall my first day in student housing—I remained in my room the whole day, too anxious to venture out and introduce myself. Fast forward to now, and I can proudly say I’ve forged some of the most meaningful friendships of my life. These bonds have truly become like a second family for me. What changed? It began with simple conversations and common experiences with those who were equally new and uncertain. My suggestion? Take that initial step. Even if you don’t feel prepared, there are numerous ice-breakers and social gatherings specifically created to help you engage. And above all, stay true to yourself. With such a varied community at Imperial, you’re sure to encounter individuals who resonate with your interests and values.
A further significant shift was adapting to the academic demands. The transition from A-levels was significant, and the leap from the first to the second term was even more drastic. It’s easy to feel inundated or to compare yourself against others and perceive that you’re lagging. However, one of the key insights I gathered was that everyone is experiencing similar challenges. If you’re finding something difficult to comprehend, there’s a good chance others are as well. Don’t hesitate to seek assistance—whether from peers or instructors. Learning to reach out and ask for help is among the most crucial skills you can cultivate in your initial year.
Speaking of assistance, the faculty in the Materials department have been remarkable. They genuinely prioritize students’ welfare and success. Throughout the year, they’ve kept communication channels open and demonstrated a true willingness to listen and assist. I didn’t fully leverage the support services available until later in the year, and I wish I had recognized their value sooner. One of the best choices I made was becoming a year well-being representative. This position allowed me to forge relationships with faculty and gain a clearer understanding of the support frameworks available. If you have a chance to engage in similar positions, I wholeheartedly recommend it—it’s an excellent approach to connect and effect positive change.
All in all, this year has shown me that the apprehension I felt before and at the beginning of university was normal—but also manageable. With the right support and attitude, those anxieties can be surmounted. I’ve realized that I’m never genuinely alone and that it’s entirely possible to relish university life even amid the pressures of examinations and deadlines.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London