Written by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Reflecting on October 2022, I recall experiencing a mix of nerves, uncertainty, and being overwhelmed as I got ready to embark on my first year in Materials Science and Engineering at Imperial College London. As someone who has always been somewhat shy and reserved, the thought of plunging into university life felt quite intimidating. Yet now, nearly a year later, I can look back on an academic journey that has been rich with personal development, challenges, and memorable experiences. So, what insights have I gained, and what is my current situation?
One of the primary challenges I encountered early in my journey was forming friendships. This is a common concern for many newcomers, and I was no different. I vividly remember my initial day in student accommodation—I was so daunted that I ended up spending the whole day in my room, too anxious to mingle. Fast forward to now, and I can confidently state that I’ve forged some of the best friendships I’ve ever known. These bonds have become like a second family to me.
What made a difference? Simply initiating conversations with others who were experiencing similar situations. I discovered that taking that first step, even when it feels awkward, is crucial. And if you’re not ready right away, that’s perfectly fine—there are numerous ice-breaker activities and chances to meet new people. Most importantly, I found out that being your true self is the best strategy. With such a varied student community, you are sure to find individuals who resonate with your interests and beliefs.
Another significant obstacle was adapting to the academic demands. The shift from A-levels to university-level coursework was considerable, and the jump from the first to the second term was even more pronounced. It’s easy to feel as if you’re lagging behind when observing others studying intensively or grasping subjects more swiftly. However, I came to realize that everyone encounters difficulties at some stage. If something isn’t clear to you, it’s likely that others are grappling with it as well. This is why seeking help—be it from peers or faculty—constitutes one of the most essential skills to cultivate in your first year.
On the topic of staff, the assistance from the Materials department has been remarkable. The lecturers and tutors genuinely wish for their students to thrive and are acutely aware of the hurdles we encounter. They maintain open communication and are always ready to lend an ear. I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support until later in the year, and I often wish I had taken advantage of it sooner.
In the early days, I took a bold step by becoming a year well-being representative. This position allowed me to engage with staff and better understand the available support systems. Familiarizing myself with my lecturers and tutors has proven impactful—they’re not just there to deliver lectures but to provide support too. My recommendation? Make the most of the assistance available to you. You can never have too much support.
Overall, this year has shown me that the anxiety and apprehension I experienced at the start were not only normal but also manageable. With the right support and outlook, those feelings can be surmounted. I have learned that I am not alone, and it is indeed possible to enjoy university life while balancing exams and deadlines.
By embracing the challenges and opportunities that have come my way, I have developed in unexpected ways—and I look forward with anticipation to what the next year will hold.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London