Written by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
In October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, uncertainty, and quite a bit of fear as I got ready to start my first year in Materials Science and Engineering at Imperial College London. Being naturally more introverted, the prospect of immersing myself into university life seemed intimidating. Now, nearly a year later, I can reflect on an academic year abundant with personal development, hurdles, and memorable experiences. So, what insights have I gained—and what is my current situation?
One of the primary obstacles I encountered early on was forming friendships. It’s a common concern for many newcomers, and I was no different. On the day I moved into my residence—right before the official start of the term—I spent the whole day in my room, too nervous to step out and say hello. Fast forward to now, and I can affirm that I’ve forged some of the best friendships I’ve ever had. These bonds, built through collective experiences in my classes and around campus, have grown to feel like a second family. What made a difference? Starting small—initiating straightforward conversations with others who were just as new and hesitant as I was. I discovered that taking that first step, even when it feels awkward, pays off. Most importantly, I found that being authentic is the best way to engage with others. With such a diverse student community, you’re bound to encounter individuals who resonate with your interests and values.
Another significant transition was adapting to the academic demands and the heightened complexity of the material. The leap from A-levels to university content was considerable—and the transition from the first to the second term was even more pronounced. It’s easy to feel inundated or to compare yourself to peers who appear to be managing better. However, one crucial lesson I absorbed was that everyone is navigating similar challenges. If you’re finding something difficult to grasp, it’s likely that others are as well. Don’t hesitate to seek assistance—whether from classmates or teaching personnel. Learning to reach out is one of the most essential skills you can cultivate in your first year.
Regarding staff, the backing from the Materials department has been exceptional. The lecturers and tutors are genuinely invested in our success and are highly aware of the challenges students encounter. They are approachable, understanding, and maintain open communication throughout the year. Although I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support until later in the year, I wish I had done so earlier. Early on, I took a proactive step and became a year well-being representative. This position allowed me to connect with staff on a personal level, which proved to be incredibly valuable. There are numerous ways to foster relationships with staff, and doing so can significantly enrich your university journey. If there’s one key message, it’s this: take full advantage of the support available to you. You can never have too much assistance.
In summary, this year has shown me that the anxiety I felt at the beginning—while entirely normal—was frequently misplaced. With the encouragement from friends, staff, and the broader university community, I’ve realized that I’m never truly alone. I’ve also learned how to juggle the pressures of exams and deadlines while savoring university life. It’s been a transformative year, and I’m eager to see what lies ahead.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London