Reflections on My Initial Year in Materials Science and Engineering
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. I was about to embark on my first year studying Materials Science and Engineering at Imperial College London. As someone who has always leaned towards being shy and reserved, plunging into the university environment felt intimidating. Now, reminiscing about the year, I see a tale rich with personal growth, hurdles, and a myriad of unforgettable experiences. So, what insights have I gained, and what is my current standing?
One of the most significant and daunting challenges I encountered early on was forging friendships. For numerous new students, this is among the most anxiety-inducing elements of commencing university. I recall spending my first complete day in student housing sequestered in my room, too nervous to venture out and introduce myself. However, fast forward to now, and I can proudly say I’ve established some of the most meaningful friendships of my life. I’ve discovered a second family here at Imperial, both within my course and outside of it. What facilitated this? Merely initiating conversations with others who were equally new and apprehensive as I was. I learned that taking that first step—no matter how tiny—can make a tremendous difference. And if you’re concerned about fitting in, keep in mind: being your authentic self is the best approach. With such a varied student population, you are sure to discover individuals who resonate with your interests and principles.
Another significant shift was adapting to the academic demands and the complexity of the material. The leap from A-levels was considerable, and the transition from the first to the second term introduced even more challenges. It’s easy to feel inundated or to compare yourself to peers who seem to be managing everything effortlessly. However, one of the essential lessons I gleaned was that we are all navigating similar waters. If you’re struggling to grasp a concept, it’s likely others are too. Don’t hesitate to seek assistance—whether from peers or professors. Reaching out for help is one of the most critical skills you can foster during your first year.
Speaking of assistance, I can’t emphasize enough how wonderful the staff in the Materials department are. They truly care about our success and well-being, and they’re always receptive to feedback and dialogue. I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support available until later in the year, and I regret not doing so sooner. Early on, I took a bold step and became a year well-being representative, which allowed me to forge connections with staff members. That experience was incredibly fulfilling and helped me feel more integrated into the department. There are numerous opportunities to engage with staff, and doing so can significantly enrich your university journey. My advice? Make the most of every support system at your disposal—you can never have an excess of help.
Ultimately, this first year has shown me that the anxiety I experienced in the beginning—while entirely normal—was often unfounded. With the appropriate support and a readiness to step outside your comfort zone, university life transforms into something not just manageable, but enjoyable. I’ve realized that I’m never truly alone and that it’s achievable to flourish even while balancing the pressures of exams and deadlines.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London