Reflections on My Initial Year in Materials Science and Engineering
Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Just a mere ten months ago, in October 2022, I found myself overwhelmed with anxiety, fear, and uncertainty as I geared up to embark on my journey as a first-year student in the Materials Science and Engineering MEng program at Imperial College London. As someone who has always leaned toward being shy and introverted, plunging into university life felt like a formidable challenge. Now, reflecting on the past academic year, I recognize it as a period brimming with personal development, obstacles, and remarkable experiences. So, what insights have I gained, and what is my current standing?
One of the most significant and daunting challenges I encountered early on was forging friendships. If you’re an incoming student, this may also be a concern for you. I recall spending my initial day in student accommodation secluding myself in my room, too apprehensive to venture out and introduce myself. But fast forward to now, and I can proudly say that I’ve developed some of the strongest friendships of my life—many with fellow students from my course. It turns out that all it required was a little small talk with others who were equally anxious. My greatest takeaway? Embrace that first step. Even if you don’t feel prepared, there will be ample opportunities—icebreakers, events, and shared experiences—that will facilitate connections with others. And above all, remain authentic. With such a diverse student population, you’re sure to encounter people you resonate with.
Another noteworthy obstacle was acclimating to the academic demands and complexities of the course material. There was a clear escalation from A-levels, and the shift from the first to the second term presented an even steeper learning curve. It’s easy to feel inundated or question your capabilities when witnessing others study with confidence. But one insight that assisted me was the realization that everyone shares similar struggles. If you’re grappling with a particular concept, it’s likely others are facing the same challenge. The most invaluable lesson I learned? Don’t hesitate to seek assistance—whether from classmates or faculty. It’s one of the crucial habits to nurture in your first year.
On the topic of faculty, I can’t express enough praise for the teaching and support team in the Materials Department. They genuinely care about student success and are always receptive to discussing our concerns. I didn’t fully leverage the pastoral support available until later in the year, and I regret not reaching out sooner. Early on, I took the initiative by becoming a well-being representative for my year group. This role provided me the opportunity to cultivate relationships with staff members—something I found immensely beneficial. There are numerous ways to connect with faculty, and doing so can greatly enrich your university journey. My suggestion? Make the most of the support available—you can never have an excess of help.
In summary, this year has taught me that the apprehension I felt before and during the start of university was often unwarranted. With the extensive support available from both staff and fellow students, I’ve come to realize that I am never truly isolated. Most importantly, I’ve learned to navigate the pressures of exams and deadlines while still enjoying the broader university experience.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London