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. I was on the verge of starting my first year in Materials Science and Engineering at Imperial College London, and the idea of immersing myself in such an unfamiliar setting was intimidating—especially for someone like me, who had always been quite reserved. Reflecting back now, I recognize a year filled with personal development, challenges, and a great deal of enjoyment. So, what insights have I gained, and where do I stand now?
One of the most significant and daunting hurdles I encountered early on was forming friendships. If you’re a future student, this may be something you’re concerned about as well. I recall spending my first day in student housing, retreating to my room, too anxious to venture out and introduce myself. But fast forward to now, and I can proudly say I’ve made some incredible friends—friends who feel like a second family. What was beneficial? Just starting with the basics. A little small talk with others in the same situation truly helped. My suggestion? Take that initial step sooner rather than later. Even if you’re not entirely ready, there are numerous ice-breaker activities and social gatherings to help you mingle with others. And above all, remain authentic. Imperial is so diverse, and you’re sure to find others who hold similar interests and values.
Another significant challenge was adapting to the academic demands and the complexity of the course material. The transition from A-levels to university was substantial—and the shift from the first term to the second was even more drastic. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed or to measure yourself against others who appear to be managing better. However, one crucial lesson I absorbed was that everyone shares similar experiences. If you’re finding it hard to grasp a concept, it’s likely others are too. Don’t hesitate to seek assistance—whether from your peers or your lecturers. Asking for support is one of the most essential skills you can cultivate in your first year.
On the subject of support, the faculty in the Materials department are exceptional. They truly care about students and are always receptive to feedback and communication. I didn’t fully tap into the pastoral support offered until later in the year, but I wish I had utilized it earlier. Initially, I took a chance and became a well-being representative for my cohort. This position allowed me to forge connections with staff members, which proved to be immensely fulfilling. There are numerous ways to engage with faculty, and doing so can significantly enrich your university journey. My key takeaway? Don’t hesitate to leverage the support networks available to you—you can never receive too much assistance.
In summary, this year has shown me that the anxiety and doubts I experienced at the start were completely normal—and that these feelings can be alleviated with the appropriate support and mindset. I’ve realized that I’m never truly alone, and that enjoying university life is entirely feasible, even while managing deadlines and exams. Most importantly, I’ve learned how much I can develop when I venture outside my comfort zone.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London