Written by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, uncertainty, and a touch of fear as I geared up to start my first year in Materials Science and Engineering at Imperial College London. Having always been somewhat shy and reserved, the thought of immersing myself in a brand-new environment was intimidating. Now, reflecting on my first year, I recognize it as a journey filled with personal development, challenges, and memorable experiences. So, what insights did I gain—and where do I stand now?
One of the most significant and daunting hurdles I encountered early on was forming friendships. If you’re an incoming student, this might rank as one of your top concerns as well. I vividly recall my first day in student housing—I spent the whole day in my room, too anxious to venture out and introduce myself. But fast forward to now, and I can proudly state that I’ve forged some of the best friendships of my life. I’ve discovered a second family here at Imperial, and it all began with a few straightforward conversations with others who felt just as hesitant as I did. The main takeaway? Take that leap. Even if you feel unprepared, numerous opportunities—ice-breakers, events, and mutual experiences—will make it easier to connect. Most importantly, be true to yourself. With such a varied student population, you’re sure to find individuals who share your passions and principles.
Another significant adjustment was the academic demands and level of difficulty. There was undeniably a marked increase from A-levels, and the shift from the first to the second term was even more pronounced. At times, it was easy to feel inundated or to gauge myself against peers who appeared to be managing better. However, one of the crucial lessons I grasped was that everyone is navigating similar waters. If you’re finding it hard to grasp a concept, odds are others are as well. Don’t hesitate to seek help—whether from fellow students or teaching staff. Learning to request assistance is one of the most critical skills you can acquire in your first year.
On the subject of support, I cannot emphasize enough how wonderful the staff in the Materials department are. They truly care about students’ success and well-being. They recognize the hurdles we face and are always receptive to feedback and communication. I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support available until later in the year, and I regret not doing so earlier. One of the initiatives I took early on was becoming a year well-being representative. This role allowed me to establish connections with staff and gain a deeper insight into the support systems available. There are countless ways to get to know your lecturers and tutors, and doing so can greatly enrich your university experience. My suggestion? Fully leverage the help that’s available—you can never have too much support.
All in all, this year has taught me that the apprehension I experienced at the beginning was normal but often unwarranted. With the right support and a readiness to step beyond your comfort zone, university becomes a venue not only for academic advancement but also for personal growth. I’ve discovered that I’m never truly alone and that it’s entirely possible to relish the experience—even amidst exams and deadlines.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London