Written by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
A decade ago, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, uncertainty, and a significant amount of fear as I geared up to start my degree in Materials Science and Engineering at Imperial College London. As a freshman, I was entering uncharted territory, and for someone who had always been quite introverted, it felt like taking a plunge into deep waters. Now, reflecting on my initial academic year, I can see just how much I’ve developed—both personally and academically. It’s been a path filled with obstacles, self-exploration, and plenty of enjoyment. So, what insights have I gained, and where do I stand now?
One of the most daunting challenges at the outset was forging friendships. If you’re an incoming student, this might be among your primary worries too. I recall my first day in student housing—I stayed in my room throughout the day, too anxious to venture out and introduce myself. But fast forward to now, and I can proudly state that I’ve formed some of the best friendships I’ve ever known. I’ve discovered a second family here at Imperial, particularly within my course. It all began with a handful of simple discussions with others who were equally new and uncertain as I was.
What I gleaned from that experience is that taking the initial step—regardless of how minor—can have a significant impact. Even if you feel unprepared, there are numerous ice-breakers and social functions designed to assist you in connecting with others. Most importantly, I realized that being true to yourself is the best course of action. With such a varied community at Imperial, you’re sure to find individuals who share your interests and values.
Another significant challenge was adapting to the academic workload and the heightened complexity of the material. The leap from A-levels to university-level studies was considerable, and the shift from the first to the second term was even more pronounced. It’s easy to feel daunted or to compare your performance to others who appear to be coping better. But one of the most comforting realizations I had is that everyone is navigating similar difficulties. If you’re having trouble grasping something, it’s likely that others are facing challenges too. That’s why seeking help is crucial—whether it’s from fellow students or the teaching staff.
Speaking of staff, the support from the Materials department has been outstanding. The lecturers and tutors genuinely wish to see us thrive, and they’re consistently receptive to feedback and communication. Although I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support until later in the year, I wish I had reached out earlier. Early on, I took a chance and became a well-being representative for my year group. This position enabled me to establish connections with staff members, which proved to be immensely beneficial. There are numerous avenues to engage with staff, and doing so can significantly enrich your university experience. My recommendation? Make the most of the support available—you can never have too much.
All in all, this year has shown me that the anxiety I felt initially was normal but often unwarranted. With appropriate support—from both staff and fellow students—those worries can be alleviated. I’ve discovered that I’m never truly on my own, and that it’s entirely possible to relish university life even amidst the pressures of exams and deadlines.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London