Written by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
In October 2022, I was overwhelmed with nerves, uncertainty, and quite a bit of fear. I was on the verge of starting my first year in Materials Science and Engineering at Imperial College London, and as someone who had always been somewhat shy and introverted, stepping into such a new and unfamiliar setting felt daunting. Now, ten months later, I can reflect on a year that’s been rich in growth, challenges, and unforgettable moments. So, what insights have I gained, and what is my current perspective?
One of the most daunting and intimidating obstacles I faced at the outset was forming friendships. If you’re an incoming student, this might be something that weighs on your mind as well—and I completely empathize. On the day I settled into my accommodation, I felt so anxious that I spent the entire day in my room, too apprehensive to venture out and greet anyone. However, fast forward to today, and I can genuinely say that I’ve developed some of the closest friendships I’ve ever had. The individuals I’ve connected with through my course and throughout the university have become like a second family to me. What was key? Simply initiating small interactions—striking up conversations with others who were just as new and uncertain as I was. My main takeaway? Take that initial leap early on. Even if you don’t feel prepared, there are plentiful opportunities—icebreakers, events, and informal discussions—that facilitate meeting new people. And above all, be authentic. With such a varied student community, you’re sure to find others who resonate with your interests and principles.
Another hurdle I encountered was getting used to the academic workload and the complexities of the course material. The transition from A-levels to university-level learning was considerable, and the shift from the first to the second term was even more challenging. It’s easy to feel inundated or to question your capabilities when you observe others around you seemingly flourishing. But here’s something that aided me: recalling that everyone is experiencing similar challenges. If you’re finding it tough to grasp a concept, it’s likely that others are too. Don’t hesitate to seek assistance—whether from fellow students or faculty. Learning to request help is one of the most essential skills you can cultivate in your first year.
On the topic of staff, I can’t praise enough the support I’ve received from the Materials department. The lecturers and staff genuinely prioritize student wellbeing and achievement. They are aware of the challenges we encounter and are always receptive to feedback and dialogue. Although I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support available until later in the year, I now regret not reaching out sooner. Early in the year, I made the decision to become a year wellbeing representative, which provided me the opportunity to forge connections with staff members—something I found immensely fulfilling. There are numerous avenues to engage with staff, and doing so can truly enrich your university experience. My suggestion? Capitalize on the support systems available to you. You can never have too much assistance.
All in all, this year has illuminated for me that much of the anxiety I experienced prior to and even during university was frequently baseless. There’s a multitude of support accessible from both staff and fellow students. I’ve discovered that I’m never genuinely alone and that it’s feasible to savor university life even while managing deadlines and assessments. Most importantly, I’ve learned to embrace the journey, with all its highs and lows.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London