Written by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with nerves, uncertainty, and quite a bit of fear. I was on the verge of starting my journey as a first-year student in the Materials Science and Engineering program at Imperial College London. As someone who has typically been shy and reserved, the prospect of a significant life change felt daunting. However, reflecting on the year now, I recognize it has been filled with personal development, new challenges, and many unforgettable moments. So, what have I learned, and where do I stand now?
One of the most significant and daunting challenges I encountered early on was forming friendships. If you’re a future student reading this, you may be experiencing similar feelings. On the day I moved into my accommodation—just days before classes started—I was so anxious that I spent the entire day in my room, too nervous to go out and meet anyone. Fast forward to today, and I can confidently say that I’ve forged some of the best friendships of my life, both within my course and throughout the university. I’ve discovered a second family here at Imperial, and it all commenced with a few straightforward conversations with individuals who were just as new and unsure as I was.
What is the key lesson I gained from that experience? Take the plunge. Even if you don’t feel ready, there will be numerous opportunities—ice-breakers, events, and casual conversations—that facilitate connections with others. And above all, be yourself. With such a diverse student community, you are certain to find people who align with your interests and values.
Another significant adjustment was the academic workload and the complexity of the course material. The transition from A-levels to university was substantial, and the shift from the first term to the second felt even more pronounced. It’s easy to feel as though you’re lagging behind when you see others studying rigorously or grasping concepts more swiftly. However, what really helped me was recalling that everyone is navigating similar challenges. If you’re finding something tough to understand, it’s likely that others are as well. Don’t hesitate to seek assistance—whether from your classmates or your lecturers. Learning to ask for help is arguably the most valuable skill I acquired during my first year.
Regarding support, I cannot sing enough praises for the staff in the Materials department. They truly care about our success and well-being. They recognize the hurdles students face and keep communication channels open throughout the year. I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support available until later in the academic year, and I regret not doing so sooner.
At the outset, I took one significant step—I volunteered to serve as a well-being representative for my year. This role allowed me to work closely with staff and get to know them better, which proved to be immensely rewarding. There are numerous ways to develop relationships with your lecturers and tutors, and doing so can greatly enhance your university journey. My recommendation? Make the most of the support offered—there’s no such thing as too much help.
In summary, my first year at Imperial has shown me that the anxiety I felt before and during the beginning of university was often unfounded. With the right support—from both staff and fellow students—those fears became manageable. I’ve learned that I’m never truly alone, and I’ve figured out how to balance the pressures of exams and deadlines with moments of joy and connection.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London