Written by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, back in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with nerves, uncertainty, and quite a bit of fear. I was on the brink of commencing my first year studying Materials Science and Engineering at Imperial College London, and as someone who typically has been more reserved, jumping into such a significant change felt daunting. Now, reflecting on the previous academic year, I see a path filled with personal development, challenges, and many unforgettable experiences. So, what have I learned—and where do I stand now?
One of the most significant and daunting challenges I faced at first was forming friendships. If you happen to be a prospective student, this might be a concern for you as well. I recall spending my entire initial day in my room, too anxious to step outside and introduce myself to anyone. But fast forward to today, and I can genuinely attest that I’ve made some of the best friends I’ve ever had. Through shared experiences in my program and university life, I’ve discovered a second family here at Imperial. What aided me? Just starting with small actions—saying hello, engaging in light conversation, and being open to meeting others who felt just as uncertain as I did. My key takeaway? Take that plunge early on. Even if you don’t feel ready, there are numerous icebreakers and events designed to help you connect. And above all, stay true to yourself. With such a diverse student population, you’re sure to find individuals who resonate with your interests and values.
An additional significant adjustment was handling the academic demands. The transition from A-levels to university-level content was clear—and the shift from the first to the second term was even more pronounced. It’s easy to feel as though you’re lagging when you observe others studying diligently, but I learned that everyone is navigating this journey together. If you’re facing difficulties, the likelihood is that others are too. Don’t hesitate to seek assistance—whether from classmates or professors. Learning to reach out for help is one of the most crucial skills you can cultivate in your first year.
On the topic of support, the staff within the Materials department are truly remarkable. They genuinely want you to thrive and are acutely aware of the hurdles students encounter. They are approachable, understanding, and keep communication channels open throughout the year. I didn’t fully leverage the pastoral support available until later in the year, and I wish I had done it sooner. One of the best choices I made was becoming a year well-being representative. This position allowed me to engage more closely with the staff, which proved to be immensely beneficial. Whether through such roles or simply by attending office hours, establishing a rapport with your lecturers and tutors can greatly impact your experience. My suggestion? Utilize the support systems at your disposal—you can never have too much assistance.
In summary, this year has shown me that the anxiety I experienced at the outset was normal, but not something I needed to confront by myself. With the backing of friends, staff, and the broader university community, I’ve learned how to handle stress, appreciate the journey, and develop both academically and personally.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London