**Reflections on My Initial Year Pursuing Materials Science and Engineering**
*By Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)*
A year ago, in October 2022, I was consumed by anxiety, uncertainty, and skepticism regarding the future. 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 quiet, entering this new setting felt quite daunting. In retrospect, I recognize a year filled with personal development, obstacles, and remarkable experiences. But what have I taken away from this journey, and where do I stand now?
### Conquering the Anxiety of Connecting with Others
One of the most significant challenges I encountered at the beginning was forging friendships. If you’re an incoming student, this may be a concern for you as well. On my first day in student housing, just prior to the term commencing, I spent the entire day secluded in my room, too anxious to venture out and introduce myself. Yet, fast forward to now, and I can proudly say that I’ve formed some of the most meaningful friendships I’ve ever had.
Imperial has become akin to a second home for me, and all it took was a little small talk with others who were in a similar position. My key takeaway? Make the effort early on. Even if you don’t feel prepared, there will be numerous icebreaker activities and chances to relate with others. Most importantly, just be yourself—Imperial is a melting pot of diverse individuals, and you’re sure to find those who share your interests.
### Adapting to the Academic Demands
Another significant obstacle was adjusting to the demands of the coursework and the heightened complexity of the material. The transition from A-levels was stark, and moving from the first to the second term was even more intense. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed or question your capabilities when observing your peers studying, but it’s crucial to remember that everyone shares this experience.
If you find something puzzling, it’s likely that others do too—so don’t hesitate to seek assistance. This was one of the most important lessons I grasped during my first year. Whether it involves reaching out to fellow students or contacting professors, seeking help is vital for academic success.
### The Value of Staff Support
Speaking of assistance, the staff in the Materials department are outstanding. They genuinely care about students’ success and understand the challenges we encounter. Throughout the year, they maintained an open line of communication with us, ensuring our concerns were acknowledged.
Although I didn’t make full use of the pastoral support until later in the year, I wish I had sought it out earlier. One of my best decisions was taking on the role of a year well-being representative. This position allowed me to connect with staff members, which proved to be an invaluable part of my experience. There are many ways to establish connections with faculty, and doing so can significantly enhance your time at university. My suggestion? Make the most of the support available—you can never have too much assistance!
### Closing Thoughts
Reflecting on my first year, I’ve realized that the apprehension and worries I had prior to starting university were mostly unwarranted. There is a wealth of support available, from both staff and fellow students, to facilitate the transition. Most importantly, I’ve discovered that I’m not alone, and I’ve learned how to balance academic challenges with enjoying my university life.
For anyone about to begin their own university adventure, my advice is straightforward: embrace the journey, seek support when necessary, and don’t hesitate to take that initial step. You might just find yourself looking back a year from now, astonished at how far you’ve progressed.