Reflections on My Initial Year in Materials Science and Engineering Studies
Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months prior, in October 2022, I was brimming with apprehension, uncertainty, and a considerable amount 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. For someone who had always been quite introverted and reserved, plunging into such a new and unknown environment seemed like a formidable challenge. Now, as I reflect on the academic year, I recognize it as a time of significant personal development, fulfilling challenges, and memorable experiences. So, what insights have I gained, and what is my current situation?
One of the most significant and daunting hurdles I encountered early on was forming friendships. If you’re an incoming student, this might be a concern for you as well. I recall spending my initial day in student housing, retreating to my room, too anxious to venture out and introduce myself. However, fast forward to now, and I can proudly state that I’ve forged some of the best friendships of my life—individuals who feel like a second family. It all began with casual conversations and connecting with others who were just as hesitant as I was. The key takeaway? Take that initial leap. Even if you don’t feel prepared, there are numerous ice-breakers and social gatherings aimed at helping you meet new people. And above all, stay true to yourself. With such a varied student population, you’re sure to encounter others who resonate with your interests and values.
Another significant change was adapting to the academic load and the intricacy of the course material. There was a clear leap from A-levels, and the shift from the first to the second term brought a unique set of challenges. It’s easy to feel inundated or to compare yourself to peers who seem to be handling things more effectively. But one thing that aided me was the realization that everyone is navigating similar waters. If you’re having difficulty grasping something, it’s likely that others are too. Don’t hesitate to seek assistance—whether from fellow students or academic faculty. Learning to ask for help is one of the most crucial abilities you can cultivate in your first year.
On the topic of support, I can’t commend the Materials department staff highly enough. They genuinely prioritize student welfare and are consistently receptive to feedback and open communication. While I didn’t fully engage with the pastoral support until later in the year, I wish I had reached out earlier. Early on, I took the initiative to become a well-being representative for my year. This position allowed me to foster connections with staff, which proved to be immensely advantageous. There are numerous avenues to connect with faculty members, and doing so can significantly enrich your university experience. My suggestion? Utilize the support systems at your disposal—there’s no such thing as too much assistance.
In summary, this year has taught me that the apprehension I felt before starting university—and even throughout the year—was frequently unfounded. With the backing of peers and staff, those feelings became manageable. I’ve come to realize that I’m never truly alone, and I’ve discovered how to juggle academic demands with enjoyment and personal development.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London