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 as I prepared to embark on my journey in Materials Science and Engineering at Imperial. As a first-year student, I was venturing into the unfamiliar—and for someone who has always been introverted and reserved, jumping into a new setting was intimidating. Looking back now, I recognize a year filled with personal development, challenges, and memorable experiences. So, what insights did I gain, and where do I stand now?
One of the most significant and daunting obstacles I encountered early on was making new connections. If you’re a future student reading this, you may share similar feelings of anxiety. I recall my first day in student housing, where I found myself retreating to my room, too apprehensive to introduce myself to anyone. However, I can now proudly say that I’ve formed some of the best friendships I’ve ever experienced—individuals who feel like an extended family. It all began with a little small talk and the bravery to venture outside of my comfort zone. What I learned is this: make the effort early on. Even if you don’t feel prepared, there are numerous ice-breakers and events designed to help you engage with others. Most importantly, just remain authentic. With such a diverse student body, you’re likely to find individuals who resonate with your interests and values.
Another significant adjustment was the academic demands and the complexity of the course material. The transition from A-levels to university was considerable—and the leap from the first to the second term felt even more pronounced. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed or to measure yourself against others who appear to be managing better. However, one of the key lessons I learned was that everyone experiences similar challenges. If you’re having trouble grasping a concept, it’s likely that others are struggling as well. Don’t shy away from seeking assistance—whether from fellow students or faculty members. Learning to reach out and request support is one of the most valuable abilities you can cultivate during your first year.
Speaking of assistance, I can’t emphasize enough how supportive the staff in the Materials department are. They genuinely care about students’ welfare and are always receptive to feedback and communication. Although I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support until later in the year, I wish I had taken advantage of it earlier. One initiative I did undertake early on was becoming a year well-being representative. This role allowed me to forge connections with faculty members, which proved to be immensely beneficial. There are many avenues to engage with the faculty, and doing so can enhance your university experience substantially. My main takeaway here? Utilize the support available to you—you can never have too much.
In summary, this year has shown me that the anxieties and fears I harbored—both before and throughout my university experience—were often unfounded. With the backing of friends, staff, and the broader university community, I discovered that I was never truly alone. I also learned how to strike a balance between hard work and enjoyment, even during high-pressure moments such as exams and deadlines.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London