Written by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with nerves, fear, and uncertainty. I was on the brink of starting my first year as a Materials Science and Engineering student at Imperial College London. As someone who had always been rather shy and introverted, plunging into university life seemed tremendously intimidating. Now, reflecting on the previous academic year, I observe a journey filled with personal development, obstacles, and numerous unforgettable experiences. So, what lessons did I glean—and where do I find myself today?
One of the most significant and daunting challenges I encountered at first was forming friendships. If you’re an incoming student, this may also be one of your chief concerns. I remember my initial day in student housing, just days before the term commenced—I spent the whole day in my room, too anxious to venture out and introduce myself. Fast forward to the present, and I can confidently state that I’ve forged some of the best friendships I’ve ever experienced. These bonds, developed through shared experiences in my course and at Imperial, have become akin to a second family for me. What I realized is that taking that first step—no matter how small—is worthwhile. Even if you’re not ready immediately, there are ample ice-breakers and events created to assist you in connecting with others. Most importantly, remain authentic. With such a diverse student population, you’re sure to meet individuals you resonate with.
Another significant adjustment was the academic load and the intricacies of the course material. There was certainly a marked increase from A-levels, and an even steeper leap from the first to the second term. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed or question your abilities when you see others studying with confidence. But one realization that guided me was that everyone is navigating the same waters. If you’re finding it tough to grasp a concept, chances are others are too. Don’t hesitate to seek assistance—whether from your classmates or the faculty. Learning to reach out is one of the most valuable abilities you can cultivate in your first year.
On the topic of staff, the encouragement from the Materials department has been outstanding. The lecturers and tutors genuinely care about our achievements and well-being. They comprehend the hurdles students face and are always open to communication. I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support until later in the year, but I wish I had engaged sooner. One of the wisest decisions I made was to become a year well-being representative. This role allowed me to foster relationships with faculty members, which turned out to be immensely advantageous. There are numerous avenues to get acquainted with your lecturers and tutors, and doing so can significantly enrich your university journey. My main takeaway here? Maximize the support available to you—you can never have too much assistance.
In summary, this year has demonstrated to me that those initial anxieties, while natural, are often unfounded. With the right support and attitude, they can be conquered. I’ve learned that I’m never truly alone, and that it is indeed possible to relish university life—even amidst the stresses of exams and deadlines.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London