Written by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, doubt, and a sense of apprehension about what was to come. I was on the verge of starting my first year in Materials Science and Engineering at Imperial College London, and the prospect of immersing myself in university life felt daunting—particularly for someone like me, who has always been somewhat introverted. Now, reflecting on the past academic year, I can assert with confidence that it has been a journey filled with growth, obstacles, and remarkable experiences. So, what have I discovered, and what is my current state?
One of the most significant and daunting hurdles at the outset was the task of making friends. If you’re a future student, this might be something that’s been on your mind. I recall my initial day in student housing, just prior to the start of term—I spent the whole day in my room, too apprehensive to venture out and introduce myself. Fast forward to now, and I’ve formed some of the closest friendships I’ve ever experienced, both within my program and throughout the university. It turns out that initiating a bit of small talk with others who were just as anxious as I was made all the difference. The essential takeaway? Take that initial step early on. Even if you’re hesitant, there are numerous ice-breakers and events tailored to help you mingle with others. And most importantly, be authentic. Imperial is populated with diverse individuals—you’re sure to find your community.
Another significant change was the academic demands and the complexity of the work. There was certainly a leap from A-levels, and the transition from the first to the second term was even more striking. It’s easy to feel like you’re lagging behind when you observe others intensely studying or quickly grasping concepts. However, one of the most crucial lessons I learned was that everyone shares similar struggles. If you’re having difficulty comprehending something, it’s likely that others are experiencing the same challenge. Don’t hesitate to seek assistance—whether from classmates or faculty. Acquiring the ability to ask for help is one of the most important skills you can cultivate in your first year.
On the topic of support, the faculty in the Materials department have been outstanding. They truly care about the well-being and success of the students. They recognize the issues we encounter and maintain open lines of communication throughout the academic year. I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support until later on, and I regret not having done so earlier. In the beginning, I took a proactive step by becoming a year well-being representative, which provided me with the chance to build rapport with faculty members—an experience I found immensely beneficial. There are numerous avenues to connect with staff, and doing so can greatly enrich your university journey. My key takeaway here? Make the most of the support available to you—there’s no such thing as too much help.
In summary, this year has taught me that the anxiety I experienced—both prior to and during my university journey—was normal, but often unnecessary. With the right support and perspective, those feelings can be managed. I’ve realized that I’m never truly alone in this experience, and that it’s entirely possible to enjoy university life even amid the pressures of examinations and deadlines.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London