Written by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
In October 2022, I was overwhelmed with nerves, uncertainty, and a fair amount of fear. I was on the brink of starting my first year in Materials Science and Engineering at Imperial College London, and the prospect of plunging into university life was intimidating—especially for someone who had always been a bit shy and reserved. Reflecting on the past academic year now, I recognize a path of personal development, challenges met, and countless memorable experiences. So, what lessons have I gathered, and what’s my current status?
One of the most daunting hurdles I encountered early on was forming friendships. If you’re an incoming student, this may also be a concern for you. I recall my first day in student housing, isolating myself in my room, too anxious to go out and meet new people. Yet, fast forward to today, and I can assertively say I’ve forged some of the best friendships I’ve ever experienced—individuals who feel like an additional family. All it required was stepping out of my comfort zone and initiating a few casual chats with others in similar situations. The critical insight? Take that jump early. Even if you don’t feel prepared, there are many ice-breakers and social gatherings to facilitate connection. And perhaps most importantly, be yourself. With such a varied student population, you’re sure to find individuals who share your interests and principles.
Another significant transition was managing the academic workload. The leap from A-levels to university was substantial, and the shift from the first to second term was even more pronounced. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed or to compare yourself to others who appear to manage better. However, one thing that aided me was recalling that everyone faces difficulties at some stage. If you’re feeling lost or falling behind, it’s likely that others are experiencing the same. Don’t hesitate to seek assistance—whether from peers or professors. Learning to ask for help is among the most valuable skills you can cultivate in your first year.
Regarding support, the staff in the Materials department have been outstanding. They genuinely prioritize student wellbeing and are always receptive to feedback and dialogue. I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support available until later in the year, and I wish I had taken advantage of it sooner. One initiative I embraced early on was becoming a year well-being representative. This position allowed me to cultivate connections with faculty members, which proved to be immensely beneficial. There are numerous avenues to engage with faculty, and pursuing them can significantly enrich your university experience. My recommendation? Take full advantage of the support systems available—you can never have too much assistance.
In summary, this year has revealed to me that the fears and worries I had prior to commencing university were largely unwarranted. With the appropriate support and mentality, they became manageable. I’ve discovered that I’m never truly alone and that it’s feasible to enjoy university life even while balancing exams and deadlines.
By Guest Blogger
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Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London