Written by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Just ten months prior, in October 2022, I was engulfed in nerves, uncertainty, and a significant amount of fear. I was on the verge of embarking on my journey as a first-year student in the Materials Science and Engineering MEng programme at Imperial College London. As someone who had always been somewhat shy and reserved, plunging into university life felt daunting. However, looking back now, I recognize a year filled with personal growth, challenges, and unforgettable experiences. So, what have I gained from this experience—and where do I stand now?
One of the largest and most daunting obstacles at the outset was forming friendships. If you’re a prospective student, this might be one of your main concerns too. I recall spending my initial day in student housing retreating to my room, far too anxious to venture out and introduce myself. But zoom ahead to today, and I can assertively say that I’ve forged some of the best friendships of my life—individuals who feel like a second family. It merely required a little small talk with others who were just as apprehensive as I was. The crucial lesson? Take that initial step. Even if you might not feel prepared, there will be ample ice-breakers and social functions to assist you in connecting. And above all, be true to yourself. With such a diverse student community, you’re sure to encounter people who resonate with your interests and values.
Academically, the shift from A-levels to university-level study was quite significant. The volume of work and intricacy of the material escalated markedly, especially between the first and second terms. It’s easy to feel like you’re lagging behind when you observe others diligently studying and seemingly grasping everything. However, one key insight I gained was that everyone is navigating a similar journey. If you’re finding it tough to comprehend something, it’s likely that others are experiencing the same. Don’t hesitate to seek assistance—whether it’s from your peers or the teaching staff. Learning to ask for support is one of the most essential skills you can cultivate in your first year.
Speaking of assistance, the staff in the Materials department have been outstanding. They truly care about our success and well-being, and they’re consistently receptive to hearing about our concerns. I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support available until later in the year, but I wish I had done so earlier. Early on, I took a chance and became a Year Well-being Representative. This position allowed me to establish connections with staff members, which proved to be immensely fulfilling. There are numerous ways to familiarize yourself with your lecturers and tutors, and doing so can greatly enrich your university experience. The takeaway here? Make the most of the support systems that are accessible to you—you can never have too much assistance.
In summary, this past year has illustrated that the anxiety I experienced before and during the commencement of university was normal—but not unmanageable. With the backing of friends, staff, and the broader university community, I’ve realized that I’m never truly alone. I’ve also uncovered how to harmonize hard work with enjoyment, even during demanding periods such as exams and deadlines.
If you’re about to embark on your own university journey, remember this: it’s perfectly fine to feel anxious. But with time, support, and a willingness to step out of your comfort zone, you’ll find your niche—and perhaps even flourish.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London