Written by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
In October 2022, I was overwhelmed with nerves, uncertainty, and quite a bit of fear as I readied myself to embark on my inaugural year studying Materials Science and Engineering at Imperial College London. As someone who has always leaned towards being reserved, the thought of plunging into university life was quite intimidating. Now, reflecting on a complete academic year, I can assert that the journey has been marked by significant personal development, challenges, and unforgettable experiences. So, what insights have I gained, and where do I stand now?
One of the primary hurdles I encountered early on was forming friendships. The start of university can be daunting, and if you’re a prospective student reading this, it’s likely a concern of yours as well. I recall isolating myself in my room on my first day in student accommodation, too anxious to introduce myself to anyone. Fast forward to today, and I’ve forged some of the closest friendships I’ve ever experienced—individuals who truly feel like a second family. What altered? I took gradual steps, such as initiating conversations with others who were equally new and apprehensive. The essential takeaway: embrace that leap early on. Even if confidence eludes you, there will be ample opportunities—icebreakers, social gatherings, and shared experiences—to foster connections with others. Above all, remain true to yourself. With such a diverse student community, you’re certain to encounter individuals who resonate with your interests and values.
From an academic perspective, the shift from A-levels to university constituted another considerable challenge. The workload escalated, and the material became increasingly intricate—particularly transitioning from the first to the second term. It’s easy to feel inundated or to compare yourself with peers who seem to be managing better. However, one aspect that aided me was recalling that everyone is navigating similar struggles. If you’re having difficulty grasping something, it’s likely that you’re not alone. Don’t hesitate to seek assistance—from classmates, lecturers, or support personnel. Cultivating the skill to request help is one of the most valuable assets you can acquire in your first year.
On the subject of support, the faculty in the Materials department have been outstanding. They genuinely prioritize students’ success and welfare, maintaining open communication throughout the year. I didn’t fully leverage the available pastoral support until later in the year, and I wish I had taken advantage of it earlier. Initially, I took a bold step by becoming a year well-being representative, which allowed me to form relationships with faculty members. That experience was not only fulfilling but also illuminated how much support exists if you actively seek it. My recommendation? Utilize the help that’s offered—you can never have too much support.
In summary, this year has shown me that the apprehension I felt prior to and during the start of university was normal—but not insurmountable. With the correct support and mindset, those fears can be alleviated. I’ve come to understand that I’m never entirely alone, and that it is indeed feasible to relish university life even while managing deadlines and examinations.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London