Written by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Back in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with nerves, uncertainty, and quite a bit of fear. I was about to embark on my first year studying Materials Science and Engineering at Imperial College London, and the idea of embracing such a major change felt intimidating—particularly for someone like me, who had always been quite shy and introverted. Now, reflecting on the past academic year, I view it as a journey rich with personal development, challenges, and countless memorable experiences. So, what insights have I gained, and where do I find myself now?
One of the most significant and daunting challenges I encountered early on was forming friendships. If you’re an incoming student, this might be a concern for you as well. I recall spending my first full day in student housing sequestered in my room, too anxious to venture out and meet anyone. But fast forward to today, and I can proudly say that I’ve forged some of the closest friendships I’ve ever had—people who truly feel like family. All it took was a few straightforward conversations with others who were just as new and uncertain as I was. What I’ve come to understand is this: take the plunge early. Even if you’re not entirely prepared, there will be numerous chances—icebreaker events, group activities, and casual conversations—that will facilitate connections with others. And most importantly, stay true to yourself. With such a varied student population, you’re sure to discover individuals who resonate with your interests and beliefs.
Another significant change was adjusting to the academic workload and the intricacy of the course material. The leap from A-levels to university-level studies was substantial, and the transition from the first to the second term introduced an even steeper learning curve. It’s easy to feel inundated or to measure your progress against others who seem to be managing things effortlessly. However, one of the key lessons I learned was that everyone is navigating similar waters. If you’re finding something challenging to grasp, chances are others are too. Don’t hesitate to seek assistance—whether from your classmates or from the teaching staff. Seeking help is one of the most crucial skills you can cultivate in your first year.
Speaking of support, I can’t express enough how positive my experience has been with the staff in the Materials department. They genuinely invest in students’ welfare and success, and they are always receptive to feedback and communication. I didn’t fully leverage the pastoral support available until later in the year, and I wish I had taken advantage of it sooner. One of the best choices I made was to become a year well-being representative. This position allowed me to build rapport with staff members and contribute to enhancing the student experience. There are many avenues to engage and connect with staff, and doing so can truly enrich your university experience. My main takeaway here? Utilize the support systems available to you—you can never have too much assistance.
In summary, this year has shown me that the fears and anxieties I faced at the beginning were normal, but often baseless. With the right support and perspective, those feelings can be managed and even transformed into avenues for growth. I’ve learned that I’m never genuinely alone, and that enjoying university life is possible—even amidst the demands of exams and deadlines.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London