Written by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Back in October 2022, I was consumed by nerves, uncertainty, and a significant amount of fear. I was about to embark on my first year of studying Materials Science and Engineering at Imperial College London, and the thought of jumping into university life felt absolutely daunting—especially for someone like me, who had always been introverted and reserved. Now, almost a year later, I can reflect on an academic year that has been rich with growth, challenges, and a great deal of fun. So, what have I discovered, and what is my current situation?
One of the most significant and daunting tasks I encountered early on was forming friendships. For many newcomers, this is one of the most intimidating aspects of starting university—and it was certainly true for me. I recall spending my entire first day confined to my room, too anxious to step outside and introduce myself to anyone. However, fast forward to today, and I can truthfully say I’ve formed some of the finest friendships I’ve ever known. I’ve discovered a second family here at Imperial, starting with a few straightforward conversations with individuals who were just as new and uncertain as I was.
The most important lesson I took away from that experience? Take the plunge. Even if you don’t feel prepared, there are countless opportunities—icebreakers, events, and shared experiences—that facilitate connections with others. And most importantly, remain authentic. With such a varied student population, you’re sure to encounter people who resonate with your interests and values.
Another significant adjustment was the academic workload. There was a considerable increase from A-levels, and the transition from the first to the second term was even more pronounced. It’s effortless to feel swamped when you observe others seemingly managing everything effortlessly, and I certainly had moments of self-doubt. However, what encouraged me to persevere was recognizing that I wasn’t alone—everyone faced similar obstacles.
If I could offer one piece of advice to any first-year student, it would be this: don’t hesitate to seek help. Whether it’s from fellow students or staff, support is always at hand. Learning to reach out and inquire is one of the most critical skills you can cultivate in your first year.
Speaking of support, I cannot commend the staff in the Materials department enough. They genuinely care about our success and well-being, and they’re always receptive to feedback and communication. I didn’t fully exploit the pastoral support available until later in the year, but I wish I had utilized it sooner. One of the best choices I made was becoming a year well-being representative. This role allowed me to foster relationships with staff and gain a deeper understanding of the resources accessible to students. If you have the opportunity to participate in something similar, I highly recommend it.
Reflecting on this past year, I’ve learned that the anxiety I experienced—both prior to and during university—was often baseless. With the appropriate support and a readiness to step outside your comfort zone, you can conquer those fears. I’ve come to understand that I’m never truly alone, and I’ve figured out how to balance diligence with enjoyment, even amidst stressful periods like exams and deadlines.
Beginning university is never straightforward, but it presents an astonishing opportunity for growth. If you embrace the experience, you may just astonish yourself with how far you’ve progressed by the end of the year.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London