Written by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months back, in October 2022, I was engulfed by nerves, uncertainty, and a significant degree of trepidation. I was on the brink of commencing my first year in Materials Science and Engineering at Imperial College London, and the idea of stepping into such a substantial new phase of life felt overwhelming—especially for someone like me, who had always been somewhat timid and introverted. Now, reflecting on the past academic year, I see a pathway filled with personal development, obstacles, and many unforgettable moments. So, what insights have I gained, and where do I stand now?
One of the most daunting challenges I encountered initially was forming friendships. If you are an incoming student, this might be a concern for you as well—and that’s perfectly normal. On the day I settled into my accommodation, just days before the term kicked off, I was so anxious that I spent the entirety of that day in my room, too frightened to go out and meet anyone. Fast forward to now, and I can genuinely say I’ve developed some of the most meaningful friendships I’ve ever had—individuals who feel like a second family. It all began with a handful of simple conversations with others who were equally uncertain.
What I’ve come to understand is this: take that leap. Even if you don’t think you’re prepared, there will be ample chances—ice-breakers, social gatherings, group assignments—to engage with others. And above all, be authentic. With such a varied student population, you’re likely to find individuals who share your passions and principles.
Another significant challenge was adapting to the academic demands and the level of complexity. There’s definitely a noticeable increase from A-levels, and in some respects, an even more substantial leap between the first and second terms. It can be rough on your self-esteem, especially when it appears as though everyone else is managing better. But here’s the reality: everyone is facing similar challenges. If you’re having difficulty grasping a concept, chances are others are as well. So don’t hesitate—ask for assistance. That’s probably the most crucial lesson I learned in my first year. Reach out to your fellow students and don’t be afraid to contact the faculty.
Speaking of faculty, the support from the Materials department has been remarkable. They genuinely want us to succeed and flourish, and they are always willing to listen to any concerns we may have. I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support until later in the year, and I wish I had taken advantage of it earlier. One of the wisest decisions I made was becoming a year well-being representative. That position allowed me to forge connections with staff members, which turned out to be extremely beneficial. There are numerous ways to connect with your lecturers and tutors, and doing so can significantly enhance your university experience. My recommendation? Make the most of every available support system—you can never have too much assistance.
In summary, this year has shown me that the anxiety I felt—both prior to and during university—was a natural response, albeit often unnecessary. With the backing of friends, staff, and the broader university community, those fears became manageable. I’ve realized that I’m never truly alone, and that it’s feasible to relish university life even while balancing exams, deadlines, and everything else in between.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London