Written by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety and doubt as I prepared to embark on my first year pursuing Materials Science and Engineering at Imperial College London. Being someone who has always been rather introverted and reserved, plunging into university life seemed intimidating. Now, reflecting on the past academic year, I recognize a journey defined by personal development, challenges, and numerous unforgettable experiences. So, what insights have I gained, and what is my current status?
One of the primary initial obstacles I encountered was forming friendships. This is a common concern for many new students, and I was certainly no exception. On the day I settled into my accommodation—just a few days prior to the start of term—I spent the entire day in my room, too anxious to venture out and introduce myself. Fast forward to now, and I can assert with confidence that I’ve formed some of the closest friendships I have ever had. These bonds have grown to feel like a second family to me. What made the difference? Simply initiating brief conversations with others who were equally new and uncertain. My recommendation: take that leap early. Even if you feel unprepared, there are numerous ice-breakers and social activities designed to facilitate connections. Above all, be genuine—Imperial boasts a diverse range of individuals, and you are sure to find those who resonate with your interests and values.
Another significant challenge was adapting to the academic demands and the intricacy of the course material. The transition from A-levels to university studies was substantial—and the jump from the first to the second term appeared even larger. It’s easy to feel daunted or to compare yourself to peers who appear to be managing better. But one thing that truly supported me was the realization that everyone is navigating the same challenges. If you’re having difficulty grasping a concept, it’s likely others are too. Don’t hesitate to seek assistance—whether from classmates or your instructors. Learning to ask for assistance is arguably the most crucial skill I acquired in my first year.
On the topic of support, I can’t express enough how positive my experiences have been with the staff in the Materials department. They genuinely care about students and remain accessible for feedback and discussions. Although I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support services until later in the year, I wish I had reached out sooner. Early in the year, I took a chance and became a year well-being representative. This position allowed me to collaborate closely with staff and gain a deeper understanding of the support systems available. Connecting with your lecturers and tutors can be incredibly advantageous, and there are numerous avenues to foster those relationships. One vital lesson from this experience: never hesitate to utilize the available support—you can never have too much assistance.
In summary, this year has shown me that the fears and uncertainties I faced before starting university were often baseless. With the right backing from both staff and peers, those feelings became manageable. I’ve realized that I’m never genuinely alone, and I’ve learned how to balance academic demands with enjoying the university experience.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London