Written by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, doubt, and quite a bit of apprehension regarding what lay ahead. I was on the verge of commencing my first year in Materials Science and Engineering at Imperial College London. As someone who has always been somewhat introverted and quiet, plunging into such a significant new phase was a daunting challenge. However, reflecting on the academic year now, I can appreciate how much I’ve developed—both personally and in terms of my studies. It’s been a year filled with obstacles, development, and plenty of enjoyment. 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 making friends. If you’re an incoming student, this might be a concern for you as well. I recall spending my entire first day in my accommodation tucked away in my room, feeling too anxious to venture out and introduce myself. But fast forward to today, and I can genuinely say I’ve formed some of the closest friendships I’ve ever had. I’ve found a second family here at Imperial—individuals who understand me and share similar experiences. What aided me the most was simply starting with small steps: engaging in casual conversations with others who were equally new and uncertain. My key takeaway? Take that leap early. Even if you don’t feel ready, there are numerous ice-breakers and social activities meant to help you connect. And most importantly, be yourself. With such a diverse student community, you’re sure to meet individuals who resonate with you.
Another significant change was adapting to the academic workload and the complexity of the course material. The shift from A-levels to university-level study was substantial, and the transition from the first to the second term felt even more intense. It’s easy to become overwhelmed or to compare yourself to others and feel like you’re lagging behind. However, one thing that helped me persevere was the understanding that everyone is experiencing similar challenges. If you’re finding it challenging to grasp a concept, chances are others are too. Don’t hesitate to seek assistance—whether it’s from your classmates or from the faculty. Learning to ask for help is likely one of the most crucial skills you can cultivate in your first year.
Speaking of support, I can’t praise the staff in the Materials department enough. They genuinely care about our well-being and success, and they are 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 becoming a well-being representative for my year group. This role allowed me to connect with staff and gain a deeper understanding of the support systems in place. There are countless ways to build relationships with staff, and doing so can significantly enhance your university experience. My counsel? Make the most of every ounce of help offered—you can never have too much support.
Ultimately, this year has taught me that most of the anxiety I felt leading up to and during university was unwarranted. There are abundant resources and individuals ready to assist, and you’re never truly alone. I’ve learned to balance stress with enjoyment and how to flourish even when challenges arise.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London