Written by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, during October 2022, I was brimming with anxiety, uncertainty, and quite a bit of fear. I was just on the verge of starting my first year pursuing Materials Science and Engineering at Imperial College London. Being someone who has always been shy and introverted, taking this plunge into a new phase felt daunting. However, now that I reflect on the past academic year, I see a path filled with personal development, obstacles, and unforgettable moments. So, what insights have I gained, and where do I stand now?
One of the most significant and daunting challenges I encountered at the outset was forming friendships. If you’re a prospective student reading this, you may be experiencing a similar apprehension. I recall spending my initial day in student accommodation retreating to my room, too anxious to approach anyone. But fast forward to now, and I can proudly say I’ve forged some of the best friendships I’ve ever known—individuals I now regard as a second family. What was the turning point? It all began with brief conversations and shared experiences with fellow students who were just as anxious as I was. The key takeaway: take that initial leap. Even if you’re not feeling prepared, there are numerous ice-breakers and social events specifically designed to help you connect. And above all, be authentic. With such a varied student community, you’re sure to meet individuals who share your interests and principles.
Another significant adjustment was the academic workload and the complexity of the course material. The transition from A-levels was striking, and the leap from the first to the second term was even more pronounced. It’s easy to feel swamped and to measure your progress against others who appear to be coping better. However, one thing that assisted me was reminding myself that everyone is facing similar challenges. If you’re struggling to grasp a concept, it’s likely that others are too. Don’t hesitate to seek assistance—whether from classmates or instructors. Learning to ask for help is probably the most crucial skill I acquired in my first year.
In terms of support, the staff within the Materials department are genuinely exceptional. They sincerely want students to thrive and are always receptive to our concerns. I didn’t fully utilize the available pastoral support until later in the academic year, and I wish I had embraced it sooner. One bold move I made early on was becoming a year well-being representative. This position allowed me to form connections with staff members, which ultimately proved to be immensely beneficial. There are countless ways to engage with the staff, and doing so can significantly enrich your university experience. My recommendation? Leverage the support systems surrounding you—you can never have too much assistance.
Overall, this year has shown me that the nerves and uncertainties I felt at the outset were common, yet often unfounded. With the backing of both staff and fellow students, I’ve realized that I’m never truly isolated. I’ve learned how to navigate the stress of exams and deadlines while also cherishing moments of joy and connection. And most importantly, I’ve discovered how to embrace the journey, one step at a time.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London