Reflections on My Initial Year Studying Materials Science and Engineering
Written by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months back, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with nerves, uncertainty, and quite a bit of fear. I was just embarking on my journey as a first-year student in the Materials Science and Engineering MEng program at Imperial College London. As someone who had always been on the quieter side, stepping into this new phase felt daunting. However, reflecting on the past academic year, I recognize it as a time of personal development, challenges, and memorable experiences. So, what insights have I gained, and what is my current standing?
One of the most significant and daunting challenges I encountered early in my journey was forming friendships. If you’re a prospective student, this might be a concern for you as well. I recall spending my initial day in student housing cooped up in my room, far too apprehensive to venture out and introduce myself. But now, looking back, I can proudly state that I’ve made some of the closest friends I’ve ever known—individuals who feel like a second family. What contributed to this change? Taking that initial step to engage in casual conversation with others who were just as new and unsure as I was. My tip? Stay true to yourself. With such a vibrant community at Imperial, you’re likely to meet others who reflect your interests and principles. And if you’re not quite prepared to jump in right away, that’s perfectly fine—there are countless ice-breakers and social gatherings designed to help you acclimate.
Academically, the transition from A-levels to university study posed yet another significant challenge. The workload surged dramatically, and the leap from the first to the second term was even more pronounced. It’s easy to feel as though you’re lagging behind when you observe others around you seemingly flourishing. However, one of the most crucial lessons I grasped was that everyone faces difficulties at some point. If you’re feeling confused or stuck, chances are others are, too. Don’t shy away from asking for assistance—whether it be from your peers or your instructors. Learning to reach out and seek help is one of the most worthwhile abilities you can cultivate in your first year.
On the subject of support, I cannot praise the staff in the Materials department enough. They genuinely prioritize our success and well-being, maintaining open lines of communication throughout the year. Although I didn’t fully leverage pastoral support until later in the year, I regret not doing so sooner. One bold move I made early on was stepping up as a year well-being representative. This position allowed me to connect with staff members and gain a deeper understanding of the resources available to students. Fostering those relationships can greatly impact your experience, and I strongly encourage getting involved in any capacity you can.
In summary, this year has shown me that the anxiety I experienced before and during the start of university was often misplaced. With the proper support from both staff and fellow students, those feelings can be managed and surmounted. I’ve discovered that I’m never truly alone, and that it is feasible to savor university life, even amid the pressures of exams and deadlines.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London