Written by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, 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 the idea of embarking on this new journey was intimidating. Having always been somewhat shy and introverted, plunging into university life felt like a challenge. Now, after reflecting on the past academic year, I recognize a path of development, obstacles, and memorable experiences. So, what have I discovered, and where do I stand now?
One of the most significant and daunting obstacles I encountered early on was forming friendships. If you are a prospective student, this may be a source of anxiety for you as well. I can recall spending my first day in my student accommodation tucked away in my room, too anxious to venture out and introduce myself. However, fast forward to today, and I can genuinely say I’ve formed some of the best friendships I’ve ever known—friends who have become like family. All it took was initiating small conversations with others who were just as new and unsure as I felt. The essential takeaway? Take that initial step. Even if you aren’t fully prepared, there will be ample chances—ice-breakers, events, and shared moments—that will enable you to connect with others. And most importantly, just be yourself. With such a diverse student community, you’re sure to find individuals you resonate with.
Another significant challenge was acclimating to the academic demands and the intricacies of the course material. The transition from A-levels to university study was considerable, and the jump from the first to the second term felt even more substantial. It’s easy to become overwhelmed or question your capabilities, especially when observing others around you appearing to excel. However, one thing that proved helpful was the realization that I wasn’t alone—everyone was navigating similar challenges. If you find yourself struggling with comprehension, it’s likely that others are too. Don’t hesitate to seek assistance. Learning to reach out—for support from fellow students or guidance from staff—is one of the most crucial skills you can cultivate in your first year.
Speaking of staff, the teaching and support team in the Materials department has been outstanding. They truly care about the well-being and success of students, and they are always receptive to feedback and communication. Although I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support until later on, I regret not doing so earlier. At the start of the year, I took the initiative to become a wellbeing representative for my cohort. This position provided me with the opportunity to foster relationships with faculty members, which proved to be extremely valuable. There are numerous avenues to engage with your lecturers and support staff, and doing so can significantly enhance your university experience. My recommendation? Make the most of the support that’s available—you can never have too much.
Overall, this year has taught me that the apprehension I felt before and during the beginning of university was normal, yet frequently unwarranted. With the backing of peers, staff, and the broader university community, I learned that I was never genuinely alone. I also discovered how to juggle the demands of academic life while enjoying moments of happiness and fun.
Looking back, I take pride in how far I’ve progressed—and I’m eager for what lies ahead.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London