**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 nerves, uncertainty, and hesitation about what was to come. I was on the brink of starting my first year studying [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 has traditionally been introverted and quiet, entering this new phase felt quite daunting. Reflecting on this past year, I recognize a period filled with personal development, challenges, and remarkable experiences. But what insights have I gained, and what is my current position?
### Conquering the Anxiety of Friendships
A significant struggle I encountered at the beginning was the challenge of making friends. If you’re an incoming student, you might also share this concern. On my first day in student housing, I felt so intimidated that I remained in my room throughout the day, too anxious to reach out to others. 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 truly become a second home, all it required was stepping outside my comfort zone and initiating small talks with others who were just as apprehensive as I was.
What did I take away from this? Taking that first step is always beneficial. If you’re feeling unprepared, don’t stress—there will be numerous icebreaker events and chances to connect with others. Most importantly, stay true to yourself. With such a varied student population, you’re sure to encounter individuals who resonate with your interests and values.
### Adapting to Academic Demands
Another prominent challenge was adjusting to the academic demands and the heightened complexity of university-level material. The shift from A-levels was noticeable, and the transition from the first to the second semester felt particularly intense. At times, witnessing others study made me doubt my abilities.
What assisted me in navigating this was the realization that everyone was experiencing similar struggles. If I had difficulty grasping a concept, it was likely that others were too. The best piece of advice I can offer? Don’t hesitate to seek assistance. Whether from peers or professors, asking for help is one of the most essential skills you can cultivate in your first year.
### The Value of Faculty Support
One aspect that truly impressed me was the remarkable support from the Materials Science department. The staff genuinely want students to excel and are always willing to engage in conversations about any challenges we encounter. Although I didn’t make full use of the pastoral support until later in the year, I regret not reaching out sooner.
At the beginning of the year, I took a leap by becoming a well-being representative for my year. This position enabled me to foster connections with faculty members, which proved to be extremely advantageous. There are numerous ways to engage with faculty, and doing so can significantly enhance your university experience. My main takeaway? Utilize the support available—there’s no such thing as too much help.
### Concluding Thoughts
Reflecting on this year, I’ve come to understand that the anxiety I felt prior to starting university was quite unnecessary. There are abundant support systems available, from both staff and fellow students, ensuring that no one has to face challenges alone. Above all, I’ve learned how to juggle academic pressures while savoring my university experience.
If you’re about to embark on your university journey, remember that although it may appear intimidating at first, it is also a treasure trove of opportunities for growth, lasting friendships, and unforgettable memories. Embrace the experience—you won’t regret it.