Reflections on My Initial Year in Materials Science and Engineering
Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months prior, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, doubt, and quite a bit of trepidation. I was on the verge of commencing my path as a first-year student in the Materials Science and Engineering MEng program at Imperial College London. As someone who had consistently been rather introverted and discreet, stepping into this new phase felt exceedingly daunting. However, reflecting on the year now, I recognize it as one filled with personal development, obstacles, and memorable moments. So, what insights have I gained, and where do I stand today?
One of the most significant and daunting hurdles I encountered early on was forging friendships. The commencement of university can be intimidating, and if you’re an incoming student browsing this, you might resonate with those feelings. I recollect spending my first day in student housing confined to my room, too anxious to venture out and introduce myself. Yet, fast forward to the present, and I can proudly state that I’ve built some of the finest friendships I’ve ever known—both within my course and throughout the university. It appears that all it required was a little small talk with others who were equally new and uncertain.
What did I derive from this experience? That taking a step forward early on is typically worthwhile. If you’re feeling unprepared or lack confidence, that’s entirely normal—there are numerous ice-breaker events and chances to meet others experiencing similar feelings. Most crucially, I realized the importance of being authentic. With such a varied student population, you’re sure to find individuals who align with your interests and principles.
Academically, the shift from A-levels to university posed another notable challenge. The amount of work and the intricacy of the content escalated rapidly, particularly between the first and second terms. It’s easy to feel as though you’re lagging when you observe others diligently studying or grasping ideas more swiftly than you. However, one of the key lessons I learned was that everyone faces difficulties at various times. If you find yourself confused or stuck, it’s likely that others are, too. Don’t hesitate to seek assistance—from fellow students or from teaching staff.
On the topic of staff, the backing I received from the Materials department was exceptional. The lecturers and tutors genuinely care about the success of students and are consistently receptive to feedback and communication. I didn’t utilize the pastoral support offered until later in the year, and I regret not doing so earlier. Initially, I took the initiative and became a well-being representative for my cohort. This position provided me with the opportunity to establish connections with faculty members, which proved to be immensely beneficial. There are numerous avenues to engage with staff, and doing so can significantly enrich your university journey. My recommendation? Capitalize on the support structures available—you can never have too much assistance.
In summary, this year has revealed to me that the apprehension I felt before embarking on university—and even during the experience—was frequently baseless. With the backing of friends, faculty, and the broader university community, I’ve realized that I’m never isolated. I’ve also learned how to strike a balance between the pressures of exams and deadlines with instances of joy and leisure.
If you are about to initiate your own university adventure, bear this in mind: it’s perfectly normal to feel anxious, but don’t allow that to hinder you from fully engaging in the experience. Take the plunge—you may just astonish yourself.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London