**Contemplating 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 doubt regarding what the future held. As a first-year student on the verge of starting my degree 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), I found the shift quite intimidating. Venturing outside my comfort zone was unfamiliar territory. Now, in retrospect, I realize that I’ve experienced a year rich with personal development, challenges, and memorable moments. But what insights have I gained, and how do I view my current position?
### Conquering the Anxiety of Making Friends
One of the primary obstacles I encountered early in the journey was the struggle to make friends. If you’re an incoming student, this may be a major concern for you as well. On my first day in student housing, I felt so apprehensive that I remained in my room all day, too shy to engage with others. However, as I reflect today, I can proudly assert that I’ve forged some of the most meaningful friendships in my life. Imperial has truly become my second home, and all it required was a bit of casual conversation with those who shared my experiences.
So, what did I take away from this? Taking that initial step at the beginning of the year proves to be invaluable. If you’re not ready just yet, don’t worry—there will be ample ice-breaker activities and chances to connect with peers. Most crucially, stay true to yourself. With such a diverse student body, you will inevitably find others who resonate with your interests.
### Adapting to the Academic Demands
Another considerable challenge was adjusting to the heightened workload and complexity of the coursework. The transition from A-levels to university was stark, and the shift from the first to the second term proved to be even more rigorous. It’s common to feel inundated, especially when witnessing others study, which can make you question your own capabilities.
What aided me through this was the understanding that we’re all facing similar challenges. If you find a topic perplexing, others likely do as well. The best course of action is to reach out for assistance—be it from classmates or instructors. Learning to seek help is one of the most essential skills you can cultivate during your freshman year.
### The Value of Staff Support
A key highlight of my journey has been the extraordinary support I received from the Materials Science department. The staff genuinely desire for students to thrive and are always receptive to feedback. They recognize the hurdles we encounter and maintain ongoing communication to resolve any issues.
I didn’t fully engage with the support available until later in the academic year, but I wish I had done so earlier. At the year’s outset, I took the initiative to become a well-being representative for my cohort. This position enabled me to forge connections with staff members, which proved to be immensely beneficial. There are numerous avenues to interact with faculty, and utilizing them can significantly enrich your university experience. My biggest takeaway? Make the most of the support offered—you can never have too much assistance!
### Closing Thoughts
Reflecting on this year, I’ve come to understand that the apprehension I experienced prior to starting university was mostly unwarranted. A vast array of support systems exists, from faculty to fellow students, to assist you during this transition. Most importantly, I’ve learned that I’m never alone. Despite the unavoidable pressures of exams and deadlines, I’ve discovered ways to relish my time at Imperial and fully embrace this extraordinary experience.
If you’re about to embark on your university journey, my guidance is straightforward: take the plunge, seek help when necessary, and wholeheartedly welcome the adventure that lies ahead.