Written by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, uncertainty, and quite a bit of fear. I was on the brink of starting my first year studying Materials Science and Engineering at Imperial College London, and as someone who had always been somewhat introverted, entering such a significant new phase felt daunting. Now, reflecting on the previous academic year, I view it as a journey brimming with personal development, obstacles, and many unforgettable experiences. So, what insights have I gained, and what is my current situation?
One of the most significant and daunting challenges I encountered early on was forming friendships. If you are an incoming student, this may be a concern for you as well. I recall my first day in student accommodation—the term had yet to commence, and I spent the entire day in my room, too anxious to venture out and introduce myself. Fast forward to now, and I can confidently say I’ve formed some of the best friendships of my life. I’ve found a second family here at Imperial, and all it required was stepping outside of my comfort zone and initiating conversations with others who were equally new and uncertain.
The main lesson? Don’t hesitate to take that initial step. Even if you feel unprepared, there are numerous ice-breakers and social activities designed to facilitate connections with others. And above all, be your authentic self. With such a varied community at Imperial, you’re sure to find individuals you resonate with.
Another significant adjustment was the academic workload and the shift in difficulty from A-levels to university-level material. The transition was substantial—and moving from the first to the second term felt even more challenging. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed or to question your abilities when you observe others studying diligently and seemingly grasping everything effortlessly. But here’s what assisted me: remembering that everyone shares the same experience. If you’re having trouble understanding something, it’s likely that others are experiencing similar challenges. So, don’t hesitate to seek assistance. This was probably the most vital skill I honed in my first year—reaching out to classmates and faculty when I required support.
On the topic of support, the staff in the Materials department have been exceptional. They genuinely care about students’ success and are always willing to listen to our concerns. I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support available until later in the year, but I wish I had done so sooner. Early on, I made one bold move—I volunteered to be a year well-being representative. That position allowed me to forge connections with staff and gain insight into the resources available to us. Familiarizing yourself with your lecturers and tutors can be immensely beneficial, and there are numerous ways to accomplish this. My suggestion? Take full advantage of the support provided—you can never have too much.
In summary, this year has demonstrated to me that the anxiety I experienced prior to and during the start of university was often unfounded. There is a robust support network from both faculty and fellow students, and I’ve realized that I am never truly alone. Most importantly, I’ve learned how to appreciate the university experience, even amid the stresses of exams and assignments.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London