Written by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I was brimming with anxiety, doubt, and a significant amount of apprehension as I prepared to embark on my journey as a first-year student in the Materials Science and Engineering programme at Imperial College London. Being someone who had always leaned towards being more introverted and timid made the thought of fully immersing myself in university life overwhelming. However, reflecting on the past year, I recognize that it has been filled with personal development, hurdles, and memorable moments. So, what insights have I gained, and what is my current standing?
One of the most significant and daunting obstacles I encountered initially was forming friendships. If you’re an incoming student, this may also be a key concern for you. I recall my first day in student housing — I spent the whole day in my room, far too anxious to venture out and introduce myself. But looking at my situation now, I can proudly state that I’ve formed some of the closest friendships I’ve ever experienced. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, and it all originated with a few brief conversations with others who were equally inexperienced and uncertain. The main takeaway? Take that initial leap. Even if you’re not fully prepared, there are plenty of ice-breakers and activities designed to facilitate connections with others. And most importantly, be true to yourself. With such a varied student body, you’re sure to find individuals who resonate with your interests and values.
Another significant transition was adapting to the academic workload and the complexity of the course material. There’s undoubtedly a distinct increase from A-levels, and I found the shift from the first to the second term particularly tough. It’s easy to feel inundated or to compare your progress with that of others and feel like you’re lagging. However, one thing that assisted me in pushing through was realizing that I wasn’t by myself — everyone was encountering comparable challenges. If you’re struggling to grasp a concept, it’s likely others are too. So don’t be reluctant to ask for assistance. Reaching out to your classmates and instructors is one of the most essential skills you can nurture in your first year.
On the subject of support, I can’t express enough how positive my experiences with the staff in the Materials department have been. They sincerely care about students’ welfare and achievements, and they’re always receptive to suggestions and dialogue. I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support available until later in the academic year, and I regret not doing so earlier. In the beginning, I took a brave step and became a well-being representative for my cohort. This position allowed me to connect with faculty members and gain a better understanding of the support structures available — something I found immensely beneficial. There are various ways to engage and foster relationships with staff, and participating can significantly enhance your university journey. My key reminder here? Don’t hesitate to seek help — there’s no such thing as excessive support.
In summary, this year has revealed to me that the nervousness I experienced prior to and at the start of university was natural, albeit frequently unwarranted. With the backing of peers, faculty, and the broader university community, I’ve realized that I’m never genuinely alone. I’ve also learned how to manage the demands of examinations and deadlines alongside moments of joy and enjoyment.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London