Written by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, uncertainty, and quite a bit of fear as I prepared to start my first year in Materials Science and Engineering at Imperial College London. As someone who has always been somewhat shy and introverted, plunging into a completely unfamiliar setting felt incredibly intimidating. Looking back now, I can see a year filled with personal development, challenges, and unforgettable moments. So, what have I gained, and where do I stand now?
One of the most significant and daunting obstacles I encountered early on was forming new friendships. If you’re a potential student, this may be something that concerns you as well. I vividly recall spending my initial day in student housing, hiding in my room, too anxious to step outside and introduce myself. But fast forward to today, and I’m proud to say I’ve forged some of the closest friendships I’ve ever known—individuals who feel like an extended family. All it took was a bit of casual conversation and the bravery to connect with others who were just as new and apprehensive as I was. The main lesson? Take that leap early. If you’re feeling unprepared, that’s perfectly fine—numerous ice-breakers and events are designed to help you meet people. And most importantly, just be yourself. With such a diverse student community, you’re sure to find your crowd.
Another significant change was adapting to the academic demands and the increase in difficulty from A-levels. The shift from the first term to the second was notably steep. It’s easy to feel swamped and start comparing yourself to others who appear to be managing better. However, what assisted me the most was remembering that everyone shares similar challenges. If you’re having trouble grasping a concept, chances are, others are as well. Don’t hesitate to seek assistance—either from your classmates or the teaching staff. Learning to seek help is one of the most crucial skills you can acquire in your first year.
Speaking of staff, I cannot praise the Materials department enough. The lecturers and support staff truly care about our success and well-being. They are approachable, understanding, and always welcome feedback. I didn’t take full advantage of the pastoral support available until later in the year, and I wish I had initiated contact sooner. Early on, I took the initiative to become a year well-being representative, which allowed me to foster relationships with staff members. Getting to know your lecturers and tutors can be exceptionally rewarding, and there are ample opportunities to do so. My suggestion? Take full advantage of the support available—you can never have too much assistance.
In summary, this past year has shown me that the majority of the concerns I had before starting university were unfounded. With the backing of friends, staff, and the broader university community, I’ve realized that I’m never truly alone. I’ve also learned how to find a balance between hard work and enjoyment, even during tense periods like exams and deadlines.
This first year has been a journey of growth, connection, and education—and I’m eager to see what awaits in the future.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London