Reflections on My Initial Year in Materials Science and Engineering
Authored 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 as I geared up to embark on my first year at Imperial College London, focusing on Materials Science and Engineering. As someone who had always been rather shy and introverted, plunging into a completely new setting was a formidable challenge. Now, reflecting on my inaugural academic year, I recognize a journey rich with personal development, obstacles, and memorable experiences. So, what insights have I gained—and where do I find myself now?
One of the most significant hurdles I encountered early on was forming friendships. This is a common concern for many new students, and I was no different. On the day I settled into my accommodation—just days before the term officially kicked off—I spent the whole day in my room, too anxious to reach out to anyone. But fast forward to now, and I can proudly state that I’ve forged some of the closest friendships I’ve ever experienced. My course mates and fellow students have become like a second family to me. What changed? Taking small steps—initiating conversations, participating in events, and simply being myself. I realized that feeling uncertain at first is perfectly natural, and there are abundant opportunities to connect with others. Most crucially, I learned that being true to oneself is the best way to find your community.
Another significant adaptation was managing the academic workload and the escalated complexity of the course material. The leap from A-levels to university study was substantial, and the transition from the first to the second term introduced even more challenges. It’s easy to feel inundated, especially when it appears that everyone else has it all under control. But the reality is, most students share similar feelings. One of the most important lessons I took away was the necessity of seeking help—whether from classmates or academic staff. You’re not required to have all the answers, and reaching out for support is a demonstration of strength, not a weakness.
On the topic of support, I can’t stress enough how remarkable the staff in the Materials department are. They truly care about our success and well-being, and they’re always receptive to our concerns. I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support available until later in the year, and I wish I had taken advantage of it earlier. Early on, I made the decision to become a year well-being representative, which allowed me to collaborate closely with staff and get to know them better. Cultivating those relationships has been one of the most fulfilling parts of my year. There are innumerable ways to engage with staff, and doing so can profoundly impact your experience.
In summary, this year has revealed to me that the anxiety I felt prior to starting university—and even throughout the year—was often misplaced. There is an abundance of support available, both from staff and fellow students, and you’re never genuinely alone. I’ve learned how to balance academic demands with enjoyment, and how to flourish even in times of stress.
To anyone about to embark on their university journey: take the plunge, be true to yourself, and don’t hesitate to seek assistance. You’ve got this.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London