Reflections on My Initial Year in Materials Science and Engineering Studies
Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months prior, in October 2022, I found myself overflowing with anxiety, uncertainty, and quite a bit of trepidation. I was on the verge of embarking on my first year as a newcomer delving into Materials Science and Engineering at Imperial College London. As someone who has always tended to be rather shy and introverted, immersing myself in a completely unfamiliar setting felt daunting. Now, as I reflect on the academic year, I can recognize the significant growth I’ve experienced—both personally and in my studies. It’s been a journey rich with challenges, development, and memorable moments. So, what insights have I gained, and what’s my current position?
One of the most daunting challenges I encountered early on was forging friendships. If you’re an incoming student, this may resonate with you as one of your top worries too. I recall my first day in student housing—I spent the whole day cooped up in my room, too anxious to venture out and introduce myself. However, fast forward to today, and I can proudly say that I’ve formed some of the closest friendships I’ve ever experienced. These connections have become like a second family to me. What was the key? Starting small—offering a simple greeting, engaging in light conversations, and realizing that everyone else was navigating the same experience. My main takeaway? Don’t hesitate to make that initial move. Even if you feel unprepared, there are plenty of ice-breakers and social gatherings aimed at helping you meet new people. Most importantly, remain authentic. With such a diverse student community, you’re sure to find others with whom you resonate.
Another significant shift was confronting the academic demands and the complexity of the materials covered. The transition from A-levels to university was substantial—and the leap from the first to the second term was even more pronounced. It’s easy to feel swamped or to measure yourself against peers and stress about not measuring up. However, one crucial thing that aided me was the reminder that we’re all facing similar hurdles. If you find something challenging, it’s likely others are too. The secret is to seek assistance—whether from classmates or faculty. Learning to ask for support is arguably one of the most pivotal lessons I gained from my first year.
Speaking of faculty, I cannot extol enough the virtues of the Materials department. The instructors and administrative staff genuinely prioritize our wellbeing and achievements. They grasp the pressures we experience and remain approachable for feedback and dialogue. Although I didn’t utilize the pastoral support fully until later in the year, I wish I had reached out sooner. One bold step I took early on was becoming a year well-being representative. This position afforded me the chance to connect with the staff better, which has proven invaluable. There are countless avenues to foster relationships with faculty, and doing so can greatly enrich your university journey. My recommendation? Make the most of the support that’s offered—you can never have too much assistance.
In summary, this year has enlightened me to the fact that the nerves and uncertainties I had at the outset were entirely natural—but often baseless. With the backing of the university community, I’ve come to realize that I’m never genuinely alone. I’ve also learned how to juggle the pressures of exams and deadlines alongside times of enjoyment and fun. It’s been a life-changing year, and I’m eager to discover what lies ahead.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London