Written by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months prior, in October 2022, I was engulfed in nerves, uncertainty, and a considerable amount of fear. I was about to embark on my first year studying Materials Science and Engineering at Imperial College London. Having always been somewhat shy and reserved, taking the plunge into such a significant life change was entirely outside my comfort zone. However, reflecting on the past academic year, I can confidently state that it has been a period of remarkable growth, filled with challenges, learning, and numerous enjoyable moments. So, what insights have I gained, and where do I stand now?
A significant and daunting challenge I encountered early on was forming friendships. If you are an incoming student, this might be one of your primary worries as well. I recall my first day moving into student housing—I was so overwhelmed that I spent the entire day in my room, too anxious to venture out and meet anyone. But fast forward to today, and I’ve formed some of the closest friendships I’ve ever known. I’ve discovered a second family here at Imperial, and it all initiated with a few casual chats with others who were equally apprehensive. What I have learned is that it’s always worthwhile to take that initial step, even if it feels intimidating. And if you don’t feel quite ready, that’s perfectly fine—there are plenty of ice-breakers and events designed to facilitate connections. Above all, be authentic. With such a diverse student population, you’re sure to find individuals who align with your interests and values.
Another significant adjustment was the academic workload. The transition from A-levels to university-level education was substantial—and the leap from the first to the second term felt even more pronounced. It’s easy to feel as though you’re lagging behind or not measuring up, especially when you observe others around you studying diligently. But one thing that aided me was recalling that everyone is experiencing similar challenges. If you’re finding something difficult to grasp, it’s likely that others are too. Do not hesitate to seek assistance—whether from peers or professors. Developing the skill to ask for help is one of the most invaluable tools you can cultivate in your first year.
On the topic of support, I cannot express enough positive sentiments about the staff in the Materials department. They genuinely care about students’ wellbeing 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 regret not doing so sooner. Early in the year, I took a step forward by becoming a wellbeing representative for my year group. This position offered me the chance to connect with staff and gain a better understanding of the support systems available. Cultivating relationships with staff members is incredibly advantageous, and there are numerous ways to achieve this. My suggestion? Take full advantage of the support that’s provided—you can never have too much assistance.
Overall, this year has illustrated to me that the anxiety I experienced before and during the onset of university was normal, but frequently unwarranted. There is a vast array of support available, and you are never truly alone. I’ve discovered how to balance stress with enjoyment and how to flourish in a challenging yet rewarding environment.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London