Written by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, uncertainty, and a considerable amount of fear as I geared up to commence my first year in Materials Science and Engineering at Imperial College London. Being someone who has always leaned towards shyness and introversion, the prospect of immersing myself in an entirely unfamiliar environment was quite intimidating. Reflecting now, I recognize a year brimming with personal development, challenges, and memorable experiences. So, what insights have I gained, and what’s my current position?
One of the most significant and daunting challenges I encountered initially was forming friendships. If you’re a future student, this might be a concern for you as well—and I totally get it. On the day I settled into my housing, only a few days prior to the start of term, I felt so overwhelmed that I remained in my room all day, too anxious to venture out and introduce myself. Fast forward to now, and I can proudly say I’ve formed some of the most meaningful friendships I’ve ever had—people who truly feel like a second family. It only required a little small talk and the openness to engage with others who were equally new and apprehensive as I was. My key takeaway? Embrace that leap early on. Even if you feel unprepared, numerous ice-breakers and social events are available to facilitate meeting new people. Above all, be yourself. With such a varied student body, you’re sure to connect with those who share your interests and values.
Another significant adaptation was the academic workload and the complexity of the course material. The transition from A-levels to university was considerable—and the transition from the first to the second term was even more profound. It’s easy to feel disheartened when witnessing others study with confidence while you find it challenging to keep pace. However, a critical realization that helped me persevere was understanding that I wasn’t alone. If you’re perplexed about something, chances are, many others are too. This is why seeking assistance is essential. Whether from your classmates or your lecturers, don’t hesitate to reach out. Mastering the art of asking for help is one of the most essential skills you can cultivate in your first year.
On the subject of support, the staff within the Materials department have been outstanding. They wholeheartedly care about our success and well-being, always ready to listen to our concerns. I didn’t take full advantage of the pastoral support offered until later in the year, and I regret not doing so earlier. One of the best choices I made was to become a year well-being representative. This position allowed me to forge relationships with staff members and gain a deeper understanding of the support systems available. There are numerous ways to connect with staff, and engaging with them can greatly enrich your university experience. The main takeaway? Utilize the assistance available—you can never have too much support.
Ultimately, this year has shown me that the worries I experienced before and during university were mostly unfounded. With the extensive support accessible—from both staff and fellow students—there’s invariably someone who can assist. I’ve realized that I’m never entirely alone and have learned how to juggle academic demands while still enjoying university life. It’s been a transformative year, and I look forward to what lies ahead.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London