Written by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I was brimming with nerves, uncertainty, and quite a bit of apprehension. I was on the verge of starting my journey as a first-year student in Materials Science and Engineering at Imperial College London. As someone who has always been quite introverted and reserved, plunging into such a significant life transition felt daunting. However, reflecting on the academic year now, I recognize it as a time of tremendous personal development, new hurdles, and memorable experiences. So, what insights have I gained, and what is my current situation?
One of the most daunting challenges I encountered early on was forming friendships. If you’re a prospective student, this may be a concern you share as well. I recall my first day in student accommodation — I spent the majority of it staying in my room, too anxious to venture out and introduce myself. Fast forward to now, and I can sincerely state that I’ve developed some of the most meaningful friendships of my life. These bonds have become like a second family to me. What was beneficial? Simply taking the initial small steps — engaging in light conversation with others who were equally new and uncertain. The essential takeaway: take that first leap. Even if you don’t feel prepared, there are numerous ice-breakers and events aimed at facilitating connections. Most importantly, be genuine. With such a varied student population, you’re sure to discover individuals who align with your interests and values.
Another significant transition was adapting to the academic workload and its level of complexity. The shift from A-levels to university-level education was considerable — and the transition from the first to the second term was even more challenging. It’s easy to feel like you’re lagging behind when you observe others studying intensely or grasping concepts swiftly. However, one factor that aided me was remembering that everyone is navigating similar challenges. If you’re having difficulty understanding something, it’s likely others are as well. Don’t hesitate to seek assistance — from both peers and teaching staff. Learning to request support is one of the most crucial skills you can cultivate in your first year.
Speaking of support, I can’t emphasize enough how positive my experiences have been with the staff in the Materials department. They genuinely prioritize student achievement and well-being. They understand the obstacles we face and are always receptive to feedback and communication. I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support services until later in the year and I regret not reaching out sooner. One initiative I did undertake early on was becoming a year well-being representative. This position allowed me to forge connections with staff members — an experience I found extremely fulfilling. There are various ways to engage with staff, and doing so can significantly enrich your university experience. My recommendation? Take full advantage of the support available to you. You can’t have too much assistance.
In summary, this year has taught me that the anxiety I experienced — both prior to and during university — was normal but often unwarranted. With the right support from faculty and fellow students, those feelings can be managed and overcome. I’ve realized that I’m never genuinely alone, and it’s entirely possible to savor university life despite the challenges posed by exams and deadlines.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London