Written by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, 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 prospect of immersing myself in university life felt intimidating—particularly for someone like me, who has always been rather shy and introverted. Now, reflecting on the academic year that has passed, I recognize a journey marked by personal development, obstacles, and numerous unforgettable experiences. So, what insights have I gained, and what is my current standing?
One of the most daunting challenges I encountered early in the journey was forming friendships. If you’re an incoming student, this might be a considerable worry for you as well. I vividly recall my first day moving into student accommodation—classes hadn’t even commenced, and I spent the whole day in my room, too anxious to venture out and introduce myself. However, fast-forward to today, and I can assertively state that I’ve formed some of the strongest friendships of my life. I’ve found a second family here at Imperial, both within my course and beyond. It all commenced with a handful of simple discussions with others who were just as new and uncertain as I was. What I’ve come to understand is this: take that initial step early on. Even if you don’t feel prepared, there are numerous icebreakers and events aimed at helping you connect with fellow students. Most importantly, just be yourself—Imperial is home to diverse individuals, and you will undoubtedly find others who share your passions and principles.
Another significant challenge was adapting to the academic demands and the complexity of the course material. The transition from A-levels was substantial, and the shift from the first to the second term was even more intense. It’s easy to feel inundated or to question your abilities upon witnessing others study with confidence. But here’s what assisted me: remembering that everyone is navigating the same challenges. If you’re finding something difficult to grasp, chances are others are facing similar struggles. Don’t hesitate to seek assistance—whether from your peers or your instructors. Learning to request help is arguably one of the most important skills you can hone in your first year.
Regarding the staff, I can’t express enough positive sentiments about the teaching team in the Materials department. They truly care about our achievements and comprehend the difficulties we encounter. They maintain open lines of communication and are always ready to listen. I didn’t fully leverage the available pastoral support until later in the year, but I wish I had done so earlier. One of the best choices I made was taking on the role of year well-being representative. This position allowed me to foster connections with staff members and become more engaged in the community. There are numerous avenues to connect with staff, and doing so can significantly enrich your university experience. My advice? Make the most of all the support available—you can never have too much.
Overall, this year has taught me that the anxieties and fears I experienced—both prior to and during university—were often unfounded. With the support of friends, staff, and the broader university community, I’ve come to realize that I’m never truly alone. I’ve also learned how to juggle the demands of exams and deadlines while still embracing student life. It’s been a year of growth, and I eagerly anticipate what lies ahead.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London