Written by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I was filled with apprehension, uncertainty, and quite a bit of fear. I was preparing to embark on my journey as a first-year student in the Materials Science and Engineering MEng program at Imperial. Being someone who has always leaned towards being reserved and shy, plunging into university life felt overwhelming. Now, reflecting on the past academic year, I see a path filled with personal development, challenges, and unforgettable moments. So, what insights have I gained, and what is my current situation?
One of the most significant and daunting challenges I encountered early on was the quest to make friends. If you are a potential student, this could be one of your primary worries as well. I recall my first day moving into student housing—I spent the whole day in my room, too anxious to go out and introduce myself. But fast forward to now, and I can honestly say I’ve formed some of the closest friendships of my life. I’ve discovered a second family here at Imperial, all of which began with a handful of simple chats with others who were equally new and unsure. The key lesson? Take that initial step. Even if you don’t feel prepared, there are plenty of ice-breakers and activities designed to help you connect with others. And above all—just be yourself. With such a varied student demographic, you’re bound to encounter individuals who resonate with your interests and values.
Another significant hurdle was adapting to the academic demands and the intricacy of the course material. The transition from A-levels to university-level studies was substantial, and the shift from first to second term was even more intense. It’s easy to feel daunted or to compare yourself to those who appear to be managing better. However, one of the most valuable lessons I learned was that everyone faces similar challenges. If you’re having difficulty grasping something, chances are others are as well. Don’t hesitate to seek assistance—whether from your classmates or from the teaching staff. Learning to ask for help is one of the most crucial skills you can acquire in your first year.
Speaking of assistance, I cannot emphasize enough how supportive the staff in the Materials department are. They genuinely care about our success and well-being and are always willing to listen to our concerns. I didn’t utilize the pastoral support services until later in the year, but I wish I had contacted them earlier. Early on, I took a bold step and became a well-being representative for my year group. This role provided me with the chance to build connections with staff members, which turned out to be incredibly advantageous. There are numerous ways to engage with staff, and doing so can greatly enhance your university experience. My recommendation? Fully utilize the available support—you can never have too much.
In summary, this year has shown me that the anxiety I experienced before and during the onset of university was natural, but often unwarranted. With the broad array of support systems and the community spirit at Imperial, I’ve come to understand that I am never truly alone. Most importantly, I’ve learned how to balance the pressures of academic life while enjoying the experience and seizing every opportunity.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London