Reflections on My Initial Year in Materials Science and Engineering
Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
A decade ago, in October 2022, I was consumed by nerves, uncertainty, and a substantial measure of fear. I was on the verge of commencing my journey as a first-year student in the Materials Science and Engineering MEng program at Imperial College London. As someone who had always leaned towards being shy and introverted, plunging into university life was a formidable challenge. Now, as I reflect on the past academic year, I recognize a period filled with personal development, challenges, and memorable experiences. So, what insights have I gained, and where do I stand now?
One of the primary obstacles I encountered at the start was forging friendships. For many newcomers, this represents one of the most daunting aspects of entering university. I recall spending my initial day in student housing poring over my comfort zone, far too anxious to venture out and introduce myself. But fast forward to today, and I can proudly assert that I’ve formed some of the closest friendships I’ve ever known—both in my course and throughout the university. I’ve found a second family here at Imperial, and it all ignited from engaging in casual conversations with others who were equally new and uncertain.
What did I take away from this? That making that initial move—irrespective of how uncomfortable it may seem—is absolutely worthwhile. If you’re not entirely prepared to present yourself, that’s perfectly fine. There are numerous ice-breakers and social gatherings aimed at helping you meet new people. Above all, stay true to yourself. With such a varied student community, you are sure to encounter individuals who resonate with your interests and principles.
Another significant challenge was adapting to the academic demands and the heightened complexity of the material. The transition from A-levels was evident, and the leap from the first to the second term was even more pronounced. It’s easy to feel inundated or second-guess your capabilities when you observe others appearing to manage more effectively. However, one of the most crucial lessons I learned was that everyone is navigating the same waters. If you find it tricky to grasp a concept, it’s likely that others are too. Don’t hesitate to seek assistance—whether from your classmates or from the teaching faculty. Acquiring the skill to ask for help is one of the most essential abilities you can foster in your first year.
Speaking of assistance, I can’t emphasize enough the positive impact of the staff in the Materials department. They sincerely care about students’ success and are always receptive to our concerns. They recognize the pressures we encounter and are proactive in offering support. I didn’t fully utilize the available pastoral resources until later in the year, and I wish I had done so earlier. At the outset, I took a bold step by becoming a year well-being representative, which allowed me to foster connections with staff—a genuinely enriching experience. There are numerous avenues for getting acquainted with your lecturers and tutors, and doing so can greatly enrich your university journey. My recommendation? Make the most of the support systems available. You can never have too much assistance.
In summary, this year has shown me that the tension and uncertainty I experienced at the outset were natural—and frequently unfounded. With the extensive support provided by both staff and fellow students, I’ve learned that I’m never truly alone. Most importantly, I’ve figured out how to reconcile the demands of academic life with moments of happiness and connection.
By Guest Blogger
Categorized under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London