Reflections on My Inaugural Year in Materials Science and Engineering
Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
A little under a year ago, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, uncertainty, and a considerable degree of fear. I was on the brink of starting my first year as a Materials Science and Engineering student at Imperial College London, and the thought of immersing myself in university life was intimidating—particularly for someone like me, who had always been more introverted and timid. Now, as I reflect on my initial academic year, I recognize a journey filled with personal development, challenges faced, and unforgettable moments. So, what insights have I gained, and where do I stand now?
One of the most significant early hurdles I encountered was forming friendships. For many incoming students, this is one of the most daunting elements of commencing university. I recall spending my inaugural day in student housing cooped up in my room, too anxious to venture out and introduce myself. But fast forward to now, and I can confidently state that I’ve forged some of the finest friendships I’ve ever had—individuals who feel akin to a second family. It all commenced with casual dialogues and shared experiences. What I’ve gathered is this: take that initial plunge. Even if you’re not feeling equipped, there are numerous ice-breakers and events crafted to assist you in connecting with others. Most importantly, be authentic to yourself. With such a varied student population, you’re sure to find individuals who resonate with your interests and values.
Another substantial transition was adapting to the academic demands and the complexity of the course material. The shift from A-levels to university proved to be considerable, and the jump from the first to the second term was even more pronounced. It’s easy to feel inundated or to compare yourself to peers who seem to be faring better. However, something that genuinely aided me was the realization that everyone is navigating similar challenges. If you’re finding it tough to grasp a concept, there’s a good chance others are as well. Don’t hesitate to seek assistance—whether from your peers or faculty. Learning to reach out and seek help is one of the most invaluable abilities you can cultivate in your first year.
On the topic of support, the staff in the Department of Materials have been remarkable. They genuinely care about our success and well-being, maintaining open communication lines with students throughout the academic year. I did not fully leverage the pastoral support provided until later in the year, and I regret not doing so sooner. One of the best choices I made was to become a year well-being representative. This position allowed me to develop connections with staff members and gain a better understanding of the support systems available. There are numerous avenues for engagement and connection with staff, and doing so can significantly enhance your university experience. My recommendation? Take full advantage of the resources available—you can never have too much assistance.
In summary, this year has shown me that the apprehension I experienced prior to beginning university—and even throughout the year—was often misplaced. With the extensive support offered by both staff and fellow students, I’ve learned that I’m never genuinely alone. I’ve also figured out how to juggle academic pressures with enjoyment, even amidst exam periods and approaching deadlines.
Reflecting back, I take pride in how far I’ve progressed. And to anyone poised to embark on their university journey: take the plunge, be true to yourself, and don’t shy away from asking for help. You can achieve this.
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By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London