Reflections on My First Year in Materials Science and Engineering
Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months back, in October 2022, I was engulfed in nerves, uncertainty, and a fair degree of apprehension. I had just embarked on my journey as a first-year student in the Materials Science and Engineering MEng program at Imperial College London. For someone who has usually been somewhat shy and introverted, immersing myself in university life felt extremely intimidating. Now, as I reminisce about my inaugural academic year, I recognize a path of personal development, challenges conquered, and numerous unforgettable experiences. So, what insights did I gain, and where do I stand now?
One of the most significant and daunting hurdles I encountered early on was the challenge of forming friendships. If you’re an incoming student, this might be a concern for you as well. I clearly remember my first day in student housing—I remained entirely in my room, too anxious to venture out and introduce myself. But fast forward to now, and I can proudly say that I’ve forged some of the deepest friendships I’ve ever experienced. These bonds have become like a second family to me while at Imperial. What contributed to this? Simply starting small—saying hello, engaging in light conversation, and realizing that everyone else was navigating similar feelings. My main takeaway? Be authentic. With such a varied student population, you’re sure to discover people who align with your interests and values. And don’t fret if it doesn’t happen immediately—there are numerous ice-breaking events and chances to connect.
Another significant adjustment was the academic workload and complexity. The leap from A-levels to university studies was considerable, and the transition from the first to the second term proved even more challenging. It’s easy to feel inundated or to compare oneself to others and feel as if you’re lagging behind. However, I realized that everyone encounters difficulties at some point, and it’s perfectly acceptable to seek assistance. In fact, learning to ask for help—from peers, instructors, or tutors—was among the most crucial lessons of my first year.
On the topic of support, the academic and pastoral staff within the Materials department have been remarkable. They genuinely care about our welfare and success, and they are always receptive to our concerns. I didn’t fully capitalize on the pastoral support until later in the year, and I regret not doing so sooner. Early on, I took initiative and became a well-being representative for my year group. This opportunity allowed me to foster relationships with staff members and gain a deeper understanding of the support systems available. If you have the opportunity to connect with staff—be it through roles like this or simply by attending office hours—embrace it. You won’t be disappointed.
In summary, this year has shown me that the anxiety and uncertainties I experienced at the outset were normal but not insuperable. With the appropriate support and attitude, they transformed into stepping stones for growth. I’ve come to realize that I am never genuinely alone, and that it’s entirely possible to relish university life even amidst the pressures of exams and deadlines.
If you’re about to embark on your own journey at Imperial or another university, remember that it’s natural to feel uncertain. But also understand that there’s a whole community prepared to support you—and that some of your most rewarding experiences may stem from simply taking that initial step.
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By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London