**Thoughts on My Initial Year in Materials Science and Engineering**
*By Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)*
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, uncertainty, and skepticism about what lay ahead. I was on the verge of starting my first year in [Materials Science and Engineering](https://www.imperial.ac.uk/study/courses/undergraduate/materials-science-engineering-meng/?utm_source=blog&utm_medium=internal&utm_campaign=mra-blogs&utm_content=link) at Imperial College London. As someone who had always been introverted and reserved, immersing myself in a brand-new setting felt intimidating. Now, reflecting on the past year, I recognize it has been filled with personal development, obstacles, and a lot of enjoyable moments. But what have I gained from this experience, and where do I find myself today?
### Conquering the Anxiety of Making Connections
One of the primary challenges I encountered early on was forming friendships. If you’re an incoming student, this might be a major concern for you as well. On my first day in university housing, I spent hours secluded in my room, too daunted to venture out and introduce myself. However, as I reflect today, I can proudly say that I’ve formed some of the most meaningful friendships I’ve ever had. Imperial has grown to become a second home, and all it required was a few brief interactions with others in similar situations.
So, what did I take away from this? Taking that initial step is always beneficial. Even if you’re feeling unprepared, there will be numerous icebreaker events and chances to meet others. Most importantly, just be true to yourself. With such a diverse student population, you will surely find individuals who resonate with your interests and values.
### Adapting to the Academic Demands
Another significant challenge was adjusting to the workload and the heightened complexity of university-level coursework. The shift from A-levels was notable, and the transition from the first to the second term was even more daunting. It’s easy to feel inundated and question your skills, especially when observing others working fervently.
What proved most beneficial for me was the realization that I wasn’t navigating this road alone. If I found difficulty grasping a concept, it was likely others were dealing with similar struggles. The most valuable lesson I learned during my first year was to seek assistance—whether from classmates or instructors.
### The Value of Seeking Assistance
This brings me to my next point: the remarkable support from the Materials Science department. The staff genuinely desire for students to excel and are consistently receptive to feedback. They comprehend the hurdles we encounter and actively work to address student issues.
I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support available until later in the year, but I wish I had taken advantage of it sooner. One of the finest choices I made was to become a year well-being representative. This position allowed me to build connections with faculty members, which turned out to be invaluable. There are numerous ways to engage with the faculty, and doing so can significantly enrich your university experience. My key takeaway? Always feel free to make use of the support available to you—you can never have too much assistance!
### Concluding Thoughts
On the whole, my initial year has shown me that many of the fears I harbored—both prior to and during university—were unfounded. There is an abundance of support from both faculty and fellow students, and I’ve learned that I’m never genuinely alone. Most importantly, I’ve figured out how to balance academic demands with enjoyment, ensuring I make the most of my journey at Imperial.
If you’re about to embark on your university experience, my suggestion is straightforward: take that leap, don’t hesitate to seek help when necessary, and fully embrace the experience. You will evolve in ways you never anticipated.