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 about to embark on my first year of studying Materials Science and Engineering at Imperial College London, and the thought of plunging into something so novel and unfamiliar felt intimidating—especially for someone like me, who had always been rather introverted and quiet. Now, as I look back on the past academic year, I see a journey filled with personal development, challenges, 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 forging friendships. If you’re a future student, this may also be one of your main concerns. I remember my initial day in student accommodation, just prior to the start of term—I spent the whole day in my room, too anxious to venture out and introduce myself. But fast forward to today, and I can confidently state that I’ve developed some of the best friendships I’ve ever had. I’ve found a second family here at Imperial, and it all began with a few simple conversations with others who were just as new and unsure as I was.
What did I gain from this experience? That taking the initial step—regardless of how trivial—can result in something remarkable. If you’re not feeling prepared or at ease right away, that’s perfectly fine. There are numerous ice-breakers and events designed to facilitate connections with others. And most importantly, just be who you are. With such a diverse student population, you’re sure to meet people who resonate with your interests and values.
Another major challenge was adapting to the academic demands and the level of difficulty. The transition from A-levels to university was palpable, and the shift from the first to the second term was even more pronounced. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed or to compare yourself to others who appear to be managing better. But one insight that helped me persevere was the realization that everyone is facing similar struggles. If you’re having trouble grasping a concept, chances are others are as well. So don’t hesitate to seek assistance—whether from your peers or the faculty. Learning to ask for help is arguably the most valuable skill I acquired during my first year.
Regarding faculty, the support from the Materials department has been outstanding. The lecturers and support staff are genuinely invested in students’ success, and they understand the challenges we encounter. They keep lines of communication open and are always ready to listen. I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support available until later in the year, and I wish I had taken advantage of it sooner.
At the start of the year, I took a bold step and became a year well-being representative. This role allowed me to work closely with staff and foster a deeper connection that proved incredibly beneficial. There are various ways to establish relationships with faculty, and doing so can significantly enrich your university journey. My suggestion? Take full advantage of the support that’s offered to you—you can never have too much.
Reflecting back, this year has shown me that the anxiety I felt—both before and during university—was natural, but often unwarranted. With the extensive range of support from both faculty and fellow students, I learned that I was never genuinely alone. Most importantly, I discovered how to relish the university experience, even while balancing the pressures of exams and deadlines.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London