Written by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with nerves, uncertainty, and a considerable amount of fear. I was on the verge of starting my first year in Materials Science and Engineering at Imperial College London, and the idea of diving straight into university life felt intimidating—particularly for someone like me, who has always been rather shy and introverted. Now, reflecting on the academic year, I recognize a journey characterized by personal development, obstacles, and many unforgettable experiences. So, what have I learned, and where do I stand now?
One of the primary challenges I encountered early on was the task of making friends. This is a common concern among new students, and I was no different. On the day I moved into my residence—just days before the term officially commenced—I felt so overwhelmed that I spent the entire day in my room, too anxious to go out and introduce myself. Fast forward to now, and I can confidently say that I’ve formed some of the closest friendships of my life. I’ve discovered a second family here at Imperial, both within my course and outside of it. All it took was a bit of casual conversation and the courage to reach out to others who were in similar situations. My key lesson? Take that initial step. Even if it feels awkward initially, there are numerous ice-breaking activities and events designed to help you connect with others. Most importantly, be true to yourself—Imperial is filled with diverse personalities, and you’re sure to find your community.
Another significant challenge was adapting to the academic demands. The shift from A-levels to university-level studies was considerable, and the transition from the first to the second term was even more intense. It’s easy to feel like you’re lagging behind, particularly when you observe others seemingly managing everything effortlessly. But here’s the reality: everyone encounters difficulties at some point. If you’re feeling puzzled or stuck, chances are you’re not alone. Don’t shy away from seeking assistance—be it from fellow students or faculty. Learning to reach out and seek support is one of the most crucial skills you can gain in your first year.
Speaking of support, the staff in the Materials department are exceptional. They genuinely prioritize students’ well-being and success and are always receptive to feedback and communication. I didn’t fully leverage the pastoral support resources available until later in the year, and I wish I had done so earlier. One of the proactive steps I took early on was becoming a well-being representative for my year group. This position allowed me to build a better rapport with the staff, which proved to be incredibly valuable. There are numerous ways to cultivate relationships with faculty, and doing so can significantly enrich your university experience. The main takeaway? Utilize the support systems at your disposal—you can never have too much assistance.
Overall, this year has shown me that the apprehension I felt before and during university was often unfounded. With the right support from staff and fellow students, those feelings became manageable. I’ve learned that I am never truly alone, and that it is possible to embrace university life—even amidst the pressures of exams and deadlines.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London