Written by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I found myself overwhelmed with nerves, uncertainty, and a healthy dose of fear as I readied myself to embark on my journey as a first-year student in the Materials Science and Engineering MEng program at Imperial College London. As someone who has always leaned towards being shy and reserved, plunging into university life felt like a tall order. However, now that I reflect on the past academic year, I recognize a period rich with personal development, challenges, and memorable experiences. So, what insights have I gained, and where do I stand now?
One of the most daunting and significant challenges I encountered early on was forming friendships. If you’re an incoming student, this may be a concern for you as well. I recall my initial day in student housing—I spent the whole day in my room, too anxious to venture out and introduce myself. But fast-forward to today, and I can proudly say I’ve forged some of the best friendships I’ve ever known. I’ve discovered a second family here at Imperial, and it all began with brief chats with individuals who were equally as apprehensive as I was. The main takeaway? Make that move early on. Even if you’re feeling unprepared, there are numerous ice-breakers and events designed to help you engage with others. And above all, remain true to yourself. With such a varied student population, you’re sure to connect with people who resonate with you.
Another significant obstacle was acclimating to the academic demands and the complexity of the material. The transition from A-levels to university was substantial—and the leap from first to second term was even more challenging. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed or to compare yourself to peers and feel like you’re lagging. However, one thing that assisted me during those challenging times was the reminder that everyone is in a similar situation. If you’re having difficulty grasping something, there’s a good chance others are as well. So don’t shy away from seeking help—whether from classmates or the teaching staff. Learning to seek assistance is one of the most crucial skills you can cultivate in your first year.
Speaking of staff, the backing from the Materials department has been remarkable. The lecturers and support personnel genuinely care about students’ success, and they are well aware of the hurdles we encounter. They’re accessible, compassionate, and maintain open lines of communication throughout the year. I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support until later in the year, but I wish I had done so earlier. One initiative I did take early on was becoming a year well-being representative. This position allowed me to build rapport with the staff, which proved to be immensely helpful. There are numerous ways to foster those connections, and doing so can significantly enhance your university experience. My recommendation? Take full advantage of the support offered—you can never have too much.
In summary, this year has shown me that the apprehensions and uncertainties I faced at the outset were natural, yet often unfounded. Thanks to the extensive support from both the staff and fellow students, I’ve learned that I’m never truly on my own. I’ve also figured out how to juggle academic pressures with enjoyment, even during exam periods and tight deadlines.
As I look back, I’m proud of the progress I’ve made—and I’m eager for what lies ahead.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London