Written by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I experienced a whirlwind of nerves, uncertainty, and quite a bit of anxiety. I was on the verge of starting my first year in Materials Science and Engineering at Imperial College London, and as someone who has always been somewhat shy and introverted, stepping into a completely unfamiliar setting felt quite daunting. Reflecting on the past academic year now, I view it as a journey marked by personal development, challenges, and numerous memorable experiences. So, what have I discovered, and what is my current situation?
One of the most significant and intimidating hurdles I encountered early on was forming friendships. For many fresh students, this can represent one of the most frightening parts of beginning university. I recall spending my initial day in student housing stuck in my room, too anxious to venture out and introduce myself. But looking at where I am now, I can proudly affirm that I have formed some of the best friendships of my life—individuals who feel like a second family. It all began with simple conversations and shared experiences. My most important lesson? Take the plunge early. Even if you’re feeling unprepared, there are many icebreaker events and chances to connect with others. Most importantly, be authentic. With such a varied student community, you will undoubtedly find those who share your passions and principles.
Another significant adjustment was the academic workload and the increase in complexity from A-levels. The shift from the first term to the second was particularly pronounced. It’s easy to feel like you’re lagging behind when you observe others studying or grasping concepts faster. However, one of the most crucial insights I gained was that everyone experiences similar struggles. If you’re having difficulty understanding something, it’s likely that others are too. Don’t hesitate to seek assistance—whether from classmates or faculty. Learning to reach out and ask for help is one of the most essential skills you can cultivate during your initial year.
Speaking of assistance, I can’t praise the staff in the Materials department enough. They sincerely care about students’ success and show immense empathy towards the challenges we encounter. Throughout the year, they fostered open communication and were always available to listen. I didn’t fully utilize the available pastoral support until later in the year, and I regret not taking advantage of it sooner. Early on, I did take a step forward by becoming a well-being representative for my year, which allowed me to connect better with the staff members. Establishing those relationships turned out to be incredibly beneficial, and I would urge anyone to seek ways to engage with the staff—it can lead to significant enhancements.
In summary, this year has illustrated that the anxiety I felt at the start was quite normal but often unwarranted. With the broad spectrum of support available—from both staff and fellow students—there’s always someone to rely on. I’ve realized that I’m never truly isolated, and that enjoying university life is indeed possible even amid the pressures of exams and deadlines.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London