Written by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Back in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, uncertainty, and quite a bit of fear. I was about to embark on my first year studying Materials Science and Engineering at Imperial College London, and the thought of stepping into something so new and unknown was intimidating—especially for someone who has always been somewhat shy and reserved. Now, reflecting on the past academic year, I can recognize just how much I’ve evolved. It’s been a journey rife with obstacles, personal growth, and a significant amount of fun. So, what insights have I gained, and where do I find myself now?
One of the most daunting challenges at the outset was forging friendships. If you’re an incoming student, this might be a concern for you as well. I recall spending my initial day in student housing sequestered in my room, too anxious to venture out and introduce myself. But fast forward to the present, and I can proudly say I’ve formed some of the most meaningful friendships I’ve ever had—people I now think of as a second family. All it required was a bit of casual conversation and the bravery to reach out to others who were just as new and uncertain as I was. The essential takeaway? Take that jump early on. Even if you don’t feel prepared, there will be numerous ice-breakers and events to facilitate your connections. And above all, be authentic. With such a diverse student community, you’re sure to find individuals you resonate with.
Another significant adjustment was the academic demands and the complexity of the material. The transition from A-levels was palpable—and the jump from the first to the second term was even more pronounced. It’s easy to become overwhelmed or to measure yourself against others and feel like you’re lagging. However, one thing that truly aided me was the realization that everyone is experiencing similar struggles. If you’re having difficulty grasping a concept, likely, others are too. Do not hesitate to seek assistance—whether from peers or instructors. Learning to ask for help is probably the most valuable skill I acquired in my first year.
Speaking of support, I can’t express enough how positive my experience has been with the staff in the Materials department. They genuinely care about students’ success and well-being. They understand the hurdles we encounter and are always receptive to communication. I didn’t take full advantage of the pastoral support until later in the year, and I regret not reaching out sooner. Early on, I took a step forward and became a year well-being representative. This role allowed me to connect with the staff more intimately, which proved to be immensely beneficial. There are numerous avenues to foster relationships with staff, and doing so can greatly enrich your university experience. My recommendation? Fully utilize the support available—you can never have too much.
In summary, this year has taught me that the anxiety I felt prior to and during the commencement of university was typical, but often unnecessary. With adequate support—from both faculty and fellow students—those jitters can be alleviated. I’ve discovered that I’m never genuinely alone, and that it’s feasible to enjoy university life even while managing exams and deadlines.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London