**Reflecting on My Initial Year in Materials Science and Engineering**
*Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)*
Ten months back, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, trepidation, and uncertainty about what lay ahead. I was on the verge of starting my path as a first-year student 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 a person who has always been introverted and quiet, jumping straight into this new phase was quite unfamiliar for me. Now, reflecting on the past year, I recognize a period rich in personal development, hurdles, and an abundance of enjoyment! So, what have I gained from this year, and where do I stand at this point?
### Conquering the Fear of Forming Friendships
One of the most intimidating hurdles I encountered was the challenge of forming new friendships. If you’re a potential student reading this, you might be experiencing similar feelings. On my first day settling into my accommodation, just prior to the start of the term, I spent the whole day tucked away in my room, too scared to venture out and introduce myself. Fast forward to now, and I can proudly state that I’ve forged some of the most meaningful friendships in my life. I’ve discovered a second family here at Imperial, and it all began with a few straightforward conversations with others who shared my initial apprehension.
So, what has this taught me? I learned that it’s always beneficial to take that first step. If you aren’t feeling up to it or comfortable, don’t fret—there will be numerous ice-breaking events and chances to meet others. Most importantly, stay true to yourself. With such a diverse group of people throughout the course and university, you’re sure to find like-minded individuals who reflect your interests and values.
### Managing the Academic Demands
Another major challenge was adapting to the demands of the coursework and the complexity of the material. There was a clear jump from A-levels, and the transition from the first to the second term was even more formidable. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed and doubt your abilities when you notice others studying. However, here’s the reality: everyone is experiencing similar struggles. If you find something confusing, chances are, others are too. The crucial lesson is to seek assistance. This has been perhaps the most significant lesson I grasped in my first year—never hesitate to reach out for help from your classmates and the faculty.
### The Value of Faculty Support
Speaking of faculty, the teaching staff in the Materials department is remarkable. They sincerely wish for your success and comprehend the challenges that students encounter. Throughout the academic year, they kept in touch with us, addressing any concerns we had. I didn’t fully leverage the pastoral support until late in the year, but I do wish I had done so earlier.
At the start of the year, I took a bold step by becoming a well-being representative for my year. This position allowed me to connect with the staff more closely, which was priceless. There are numerous ways to engage with faculty, and doing so can significantly enrich your university experience. My primary takeaway? Utilize the support that is accessible to you. One can never receive too much assistance!
### Closing Thoughts
In summary, this year has shown me that the apprehension I felt before and during university was mostly unwarranted. With the extensive array of support resources available—from faculty and fellow students—there’s always aid when needed. I’ve understood that I’m never truly on my own, and I’ve learned how to strike a balance between having fun and managing the unavoidable pressures of exams and deadlines.
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*By [Guest Blogger](https://blogs.imperial.ac.uk/student-blogs/author/bloggers/)*
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