Reflections on My Initial Year in Materials Science and Engineering
Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I was engulfed with nerves, doubt, and quite a bit of apprehension. I was on the verge of starting my first year in Materials Science and Engineering at Imperial College London, and the idea of immersing myself in something so novel and foreign felt intimidating—particularly for someone like me, who had always leaned towards being shy and introverted. Looking back now, I can assert that this past academic year has been a voyage of personal development, brand-new challenges, and unforgettable moments. So, what insights have I gained, and where do I stand now?
One of the most significant hurdles I encountered at the beginning was forming friendships. This is a concern many students face, and I was no different. On the day I settled into my accommodation—just a few days prior to term officially commencing—I spent the whole day in my room, too anxious to venture out and introduce myself. But fast forward to today, and I can genuinely say I’ve formed some of the closest friendships in my life. The individuals I’ve connected with through my course and around the university have become like a second family. What facilitated this? Taking gradual steps—initiating conversations, participating in events, and simply being authentic. There’s a diverse array of people at Imperial, and it’s likely you’ll discover others who resonate with your interests and principles. The crux is to take that first plunge, even if it feels unsettling initially.
Another significant transformation was the academic demands. The shift from A-levels to university study was substantial, and the transition from the first to the second term introduced an even steeper learning curve. It’s easy to feel swamped or to gauge yourself against others who appear to manage it all seamlessly. However, one of the crucial lessons I’ve gleaned is that everyone is navigating similar waters. If you’re finding it tough to grasp something, chances are that others are experiencing the same. Don’t shy away from seeking help—whether from your classmates or from faculty. Asking for assistance is not a sign of inadequacy; it’s an essential skill to cultivate in your first year.
On the topic of support, the faculty in the Materials Department have been exceptional. They truly care about our achievements and well-being and maintain accessible communication with students throughout the academic year. I didn’t fully take advantage of the pastoral support offered until later in the year, and in retrospect, I wish I had reached out sooner. Initially, I did take one bold step—I volunteered to be a well-being representative for the year. This position afforded me the chance to connect with staff members and gain insight into the support systems available. Cultivating those relationships was incredibly rewarding, and I’d urge any student to utilize the numerous opportunities to interact with staff. The assistance is available—you just have to take advantage of it.
In summary, this year has shown me that the anxiety I experienced before starting university, and even during the year, was frequently exaggerated. With the appropriate support from peers and staff, those emotions became manageable. I’ve realized that I’m never entirely alone, and I’ve learned how to balance academic demands with moments of enjoyment and relaxation. University is indeed challenging, but it’s also a realm of growth, connection, and exploration.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London