Written by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months back, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with nerves, uncertainty, and quite a bit of fear. I was on the verge of starting my journey as a first-year student in the Materials Science and Engineering program at Imperial College London. As someone who had always leaned towards being shy and reserved, plunging into this new chapter felt intimidating. Yet now, reflecting on the past academic year, I recognize it as a period rich with personal development, challenges, and remarkable experiences. So, what insights have I gained, and where do I find myself now?
One of the most significant and daunting hurdles I encountered early on was forming friendships. If you’re a potential student, this might be among your concerns as well. I recall my inaugural day in the student residence, just before the term kicked off—I stayed in my room the whole day, far too anxious to step outside and introduce myself. Fast forward to today, and I can proudly say I’ve formed some of the closest friendships I’ve ever experienced. I’ve discovered a second family here at Imperial, all because I finally took that initial step and started conversing with others who were just as new and uncertain as I was. The essential takeaway? Embrace that leap early. Even if you don’t feel prepared, there will be numerous ice-breakers and social gatherings to connect with others. Most importantly, be authentic—Imperial is a melting pot of diverse individuals, and you’re sure to discover your tribe.
Another significant transition was managing the academic demands and the challenging nature of the course material. There was certainly a marked increase from A-levels, and the transition from the first to the second term was even more intense. It’s easy to feel inundated or to measure yourself against others and think you’re lagging behind. However, one thing that aided me was realizing that everyone is experiencing similar challenges. If you’re finding it tough to grasp something, chances are others are too. Don’t hold back from seeking assistance—whether it’s from classmates or faculty. Learning to reach out for help is likely the most crucial skill I acquired in my first year.
Regarding staff, the support from the Materials department has been phenomenal. The lecturers and staff sincerely want students to thrive, and they are acutely aware of the hurdles we encounter. They keep communication channels open and are always ready to listen and assist. I didn’t fully leverage the available pastoral support until later in the year, but I wish I had taken advantage of it sooner. One of the most beneficial decisions I made was to become a wellbeing representative for my year group. This role provided an opportunity to connect with the staff more deeply, which was immensely advantageous. There are numerous ways to foster those connections, and doing so can significantly enhance your university experience. My suggestion? Take full advantage of the support available—you can never have too much.
In summary, this year has shown me that the anxiety I harbored before and during the start of university was a natural feeling, though often unnecessary. With the backing of friends, staff, and the broader university community, those emotions became more manageable. I’ve come to realize that I’m never truly alone and that enjoying university life is possible even amidst the pressures of exams and deadlines.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London