Written by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months prior, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with nerves, doubts, and a fair dose of fear as I geared up to commence my first year in Materials Science and Engineering at Imperial College London. Being someone who had always been quite introverted, plunging into an entirely new setting felt daunting. However, reflecting on the past year, I now recognize it as a time rich with growth, obstacles, and memorable moments. So, what insights have I gained, and where do I find myself today?
One of the most significant obstacles I encountered early on was forging friendships. This is a common concern for many new students, and I was no different. On the day I moved into my accommodation—just a few short days before classes commenced—I spent the whole day in my room, too anxious to step out and introduce myself. Fast forward to now, and I can proudly say I’ve formed some of the best friendships I’ve ever known. I’ve discovered a second family here at Imperial, all of it sparked by a few simple exchanges with others who were just as apprehensive as I was. The key takeaway? Don’t shy away from taking that initial plunge. Even if you feel unprepared, there are numerous ice-breakers and activities arranged to help you mingle with others. Most importantly, just be authentic—Imperial boasts a diverse community, and you’re sure to find your people.
Another significant challenge was adapting to the academic demands and the challenging nature of the course material. The leap from A-levels was quite notable, and the shift from the first to the second term was even more pronounced. It’s easy to become overwhelmed or to compare yourself to peers who seem to have everything under control. Yet, one thing that aided me was the realization that everyone is facing similar struggles. If you’re having difficulty grasping a concept, chances are there are others who are too. Don’t hesitate to seek assistance—whether from fellow students or instructors. Learning to request help is one of the most essential abilities you can cultivate during your first year.
On the topic of support, I can’t express enough praise for the staff in the Materials department. They genuinely care about the students and are always receptive to our concerns. They understand the hurdles we encounter and tirelessly work to assist us. I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support available until later in the academic year, and I regret not doing so earlier. One proactive step I took early on was becoming a year well-being representative. This role allowed me to connect more closely with the staff, which proved to be tremendously beneficial. There are numerous ways to establish bonds with staff, and doing so can significantly enrich your university experience. My advice? Fully leverage the support that’s offered—you can never have too much.
In conclusion, this year has shown me that the fears and worries I harbored about starting university were often misplaced. With the backing of staff and fellow students, I’ve learned that I’m never truly solitary. I’ve also uncovered how to find joy and maintain balance, even amid the pressures of exams and deadlines.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London