Reflections on My Initial Year in Materials Science and Engineering
Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, doubt, and a significant amount of apprehension. I was on the brink of embarking on my journey as a first-year student in the Materials Science and Engineering MEng program at Imperial College London. As a person who had always been somewhat introverted, plunging into a completely new setting was an intimidating endeavor. Now, as I reflect, I recognize a year that has been abundant with personal development, obstacles, and memorable moments. 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 forging friendships. If you’re a future student, this may be a concern for you as well—and I completely empathize. On the day I moved into my accommodation, just a few days prior to the start of the term, I spent the whole day in my room, too anxious to step outside and introduce myself to anyone. Fast forward to the present, and I can proudly state that I’ve formed some of the most meaningful friendships of my life here—both in my course and throughout the university. 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 as I was.
The most significant takeaway? Make that initial move. Even if you don’t feel prepared, there will be numerous icebreaker events and chances to engage with others. And above all, be authentic. With such a varied student population, you’re likely to find individuals who resonate with your interests and principles.
Another substantial change was adapting to the academic demands and the intensity of the coursework. There’s certainly a clear shift from A-levels to university, and in some respects, the transition from the first to the second term felt even more significant. It’s easy to become daunted or to measure yourself against others who appear to be managing better. However, here’s what helped me: remembering that everyone is experiencing similar challenges. If you’re having difficulty understanding something, it’s likely that others are as well. Don’t hesitate to seek assistance—whether from your classmates or your lecturers. Learning to request help is one of the most essential skills you can cultivate in your first year.
On the topic of support, I cannot praise the staff in the Materials department enough. They genuinely care about our success and well-being, and they’re always receptive to feedback and communication. 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 of the best choices I made was to become a year well-being representative. This role allowed me to form relationships with staff and gain insight into how much they value student welfare. There are many avenues to connect with staff, and doing so can yield tremendous advantages.
If there’s one overarching insight I’ve gained from this year, it’s that the nerves and concerns I had—both prior to and during university—were frequently unwarranted. With the backing of staff and fellow students, I’ve learned that I’m never truly alone. I’ve also realized how to balance academic challenges with enjoyment and personal care.
This initial year has been a transformative journey, and I look forward to what the future has in store.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London