Written by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with nerves, uncertainty, and a significant amount of fear as I got ready to embark on my first year of studying Materials Science and Engineering at Imperial College London. As a person who had always been rather shy and reserved, plunging into university life felt intimidating. However, reflecting on the past academic year, I can recognize the tremendous growth I’ve experienced—academically, socially, and personally. It’s been a journey filled with obstacles, learning opportunities, and a lot of enjoyable moments. So, what insights have I gained, and what’s my current situation?
One of the most significant and daunting challenges I encountered early on was forming friendships. If you’re a prospective student, this might be one of your primary concerns too. I recall spending my entire first day in my accommodation room, far too nervous to venture out and introduce myself. But jumping ahead to today, I can confidently say I’ve formed some of the best friendships I’ve ever had—friends who feel like a second family. What changed? It all began with casual conversations and the realization that everyone else was experiencing similar feelings. My most important lesson? Take that leap early. Even if you don’t feel completely ready, there are numerous ice-breakers and events designed to foster connections. And above all, be authentic. With such a diverse student population, you’re sure to encounter people who resonate with your interests and values.
Another significant challenge was adapting to the academic workload. The leap from A-levels to university was substantial, and the transition from the first term to the second was even more pronounced. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed when you observe others around you seemingly thriving. I definitely had moments where I questioned my capabilities. What got me through was realizing I wasn’t alone—if I didn’t grasp something, there were likely others who didn’t either. That’s why seeking help is one of the most crucial skills you can cultivate during your first year. Whether it’s your peers or your lecturers, don’t hesitate to ask for assistance.
Regarding faculty, the support I received from the Materials department has been exceptional. The lecturers genuinely want students to thrive and are always receptive to feedback and communication. I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support available until later in the year, and I wish I had taken advantage of it sooner. One initiative I did undertake early on was becoming a Year Wellbeing Representative. This position allowed me to foster relationships with staff and gain deeper insight into the support systems available. There are countless ways to engage with faculty, and doing so can greatly enhance your university experience. My recommendation? Take full advantage of the available assistance—you can never have too much support.
All in all, this year has shown me that the anxiety I experienced before and during university was often unfounded. With the extensive support systems in place—from staff to fellow students—I’ve realized that I’m never truly alone. More importantly, I’ve learned how to manage academic pressures while still enjoying the experience, and how to embrace the journey, even during challenging times.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London