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 brimming with anxiety, uncertainty, and quite a bit of apprehension as I readied myself to embark on my journey as a first-year student in the Materials Science and Engineering MEng programme at Imperial College London. As someone who has always been a bit reserved and introverted, plunging into university life was intimidating. However, looking back now, I recognize a year rich with personal development, novel challenges, and memorable experiences. So, what have I gathered over the past year, and where has this journey taken me?
One of the significant hurdles I encountered early on was forming friendships. This is a common concern for many newcomers, and I was no different. On my very first day in student housing—before classes even commenced—I remained in my room for the entirety of the day, too anxious to introduce myself to anyone. Fast forward to today, and I can proudly assert that I’ve developed some of the most meaningful friendships of my life here. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, and it all began with a few straightforward conversations with individuals who were equally new and apprehensive. The crucial takeaway? Take that initial step. Even if you feel unprepared, there are numerous ice-breakers and social activities aimed at helping you engage with others. Most importantly, be authentic. With such a varied student demographic, you’re sure to find people who resonate with your interests and values.
Academically, adjusting from A-levels to university was another considerable challenge. The volume of work and complexity of the subjects escalated rapidly—particularly between the first and second terms. It’s easy to feel inundated or to compare yourself to peers who appear to be managing better. However, one of the key insights I gained was that everyone is experiencing similar challenges. If you’re finding something difficult to grasp, chances are others are too. Don’t hesitate to seek assistance—whether from classmates or instructors. Learning to reach out and request support is among the most valuable skills you can cultivate in your first year.
Speaking of support, I can’t highlight enough the positive experiences I’ve had with the staff in the Materials department. They genuinely invest in our welfare and success, and they strive to maintain communication with students throughout the academic year. Although I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support available until later on, I now wish I had embraced it earlier. One of the best choices I made was to become a year well-being representative. This position allowed me to forge connections with staff and gain a clearer understanding of the resources available to students. Whether through formal roles or informal chats, getting acquainted with your lecturers and support staff is incredibly advantageous. Don’t hesitate to take advantage of the help that’s provided—you’ll be thankful you did.
In summary, this year has shown me that many of the anxieties I had before starting university were unfounded. With the proper support structures established—from both classmates and faculty—those concerns became manageable. I’ve realized that I’m never truly isolated, even during stressful periods like exams and deadlines. And perhaps most crucially, I’ve learned how to appreciate the university experience, even when circumstances are challenging.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London