Written by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I was engulfed in anxiety, doubt, and a good amount of fear as I got ready to embark on my first year of studying Materials Science and Engineering at Imperial College London. As a person who has always been notably shy and reserved, venturing into something entirely new and unfamiliar felt quite daunting. However, reflecting on the past year, I recognize it has been a period rich with growth, challenges, and remarkable experiences. So, what insights have I gained, and what is my situation now?
One of the most substantial and daunting obstacles I encountered at the outset was forging friendships. If you’re a future student, this may be a concern for you as well. I vividly remember my first day in student accommodation, where I found myself retreating into my room, too anxious to venture out and introduce myself. But now, looking at the present, I can emphatically state that I’ve formed some of the most wonderful friendships I’ve ever had—people who feel like a second family to me. All it required was stepping out of my comfort zone and initiating conversations with others who were also feeling new and uncertain. My suggestion? Take that plunge right away. Even if you think you’re not ready, there will be ample chances—icebreakers, events, and common experiences—to engage with others. And above all, be authentic. With such a varied student demographic, you’ll likely find individuals who resonate with your interests and principles.
Another significant adaptation was the academic demands. The leap from A-levels to university-level learning was considerable, and the transition from the first to the second term presented an even more pronounced learning curve. It’s easy to feel like you’re lagging behind when you observe others around you studying fervently or grasping concepts with ease. Yet, one of the key takeaways I gained is that you’re never solitary in feeling that way. If you’re struggling, it’s likely that others are facing the same challenges. Don’t hesitate to seek assistance—whether from your peers or the faculty. Reaching out for help is not a sign of weakness; it’s an astute and essential aspect of learning.
On the topic of support, I can’t emphasize enough how wonderful the staff in the Materials department are. They sincerely care about students’ wellbeing and success, and they genuinely listen to our concerns throughout the year. I didn’t fully leverage the pastoral support available until later in the year, and I find myself wishing I had done it sooner. One of the best choices I made was to become a year wellbeing representative. This position allowed me to foster relationships with the staff and gain a deeper understanding of the support systems available. There are numerous ways to connect with faculty, and doing so can significantly enhance your university journey. My takeaway? Utilize the resources and support at your disposal—you can never have too much assistance.
In summary, this year has shown me that the apprehension I experienced before and during the commencement of university was entirely normal—and often unfounded. With the appropriate support from both peers and staff, such emotions can be managed and overcome. I’ve discovered that I’m never genuinely alone, and I’ve learned how to balance the pressures of exams and deadlines with moments of enjoyment and happiness.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London