Reflections on My Initial Year in Materials Science and Engineering
Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
A decade ago, around October 2022, I was overwhelmed with apprehension, doubt, and a considerable amount of trepidation. I was on the cusp of embarking on my adventure as a first-year student in the Materials Science and Engineering MEng program at Imperial College London. As a person who has always been quite introverted and reserved, immersing myself into university life felt intimidating. However, reflecting on my inaugural academic year now, I can assert that it’s been a period of personal development, trials, and memorable moments. So, what insights have I gained, and what is my current state?
One of the most significant and daunting hurdles I encountered initially was forming friendships. If you’re a prospective student, this may be a source of anxiety for you—and I completely empathize. On the day I settled into my accommodation, just a few days prior to the start of classes, I spent the whole day in my room, too anxious to venture out and introduce myself to anyone. Fast forward to the present, and I can genuinely state that I have formed some of the closest friendships I’ve ever experienced—individuals who feel like a second family. What changed? It all began with casual chats and shared experiences. The essential lesson? Don’t hesitate to make that initial move. Even if confidence isn’t high, there are plenty of ice-breakers and social gatherings created to facilitate connections. And above all, remain true to yourself. With such a varied student population, you’re sure to find like-minded individuals who reflect your interests and values.
Another significant adaptation was the academic expectations and the complexity of the course materials. There was undoubtedly a noticeable escalation from A-levels, and the shift from the first to the second term was even more challenging. It’s easy to feel inundated or to compare your progress with others who appear to be coping better. Nevertheless, one of the key lessons I’ve absorbed is that you’re never alone in experiencing those feelings. It’s likely that if you’re having difficulty grasping something, others are, too. So, don’t be hesitant to request assistance—whether from your peers or the academic staff. Learning to reach out for support is among the most beneficial skills you can cultivate in your first year.
Regarding support, I can’t emphasize enough the positive attributes of the staff in the Materials department. They truly prioritize students’ well-being and success, and they are always receptive to communication and feedback. I didn’t fully utilize the available pastoral support until later in the year, and I regret not doing so earlier. At the outset, I took the initiative to become a year well-being representative. This position allowed me to foster connections with faculty members, which proved immensely beneficial. There are numerous avenues to familiarize yourself with your lecturers and tutors, and doing so can significantly enhance your university experience. My suggestion? Fully engage with the support systems at your disposal—you can never receive too much assistance.
Ultimately, this year has highlighted that the anxiety and uncertainty I experienced at the start were both natural and manageable. With the appropriate support and perspective, I’ve learned to harmonize academic demands with personal fulfillment. Most importantly, I’ve realized that I am never genuinely alone on this journey.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London