**Reflections on My First Year at Imperial College London**
*By Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)*
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, uncertainty, and apprehension about what awaited me. 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, entering this new phase felt daunting. Now, as I reflect, I recognize a year filled with personal development, obstacles, and memorable experiences. But what insights have I gained, and what is my current perspective?
### Conquering the Fear of Friendships
One of the most significant challenges I encountered at the start was forming friendships. If you’re an incoming student, you might also have concerns about this. I vividly remember my first day in student housing—I was so daunted by the thought of socializing that I spent the whole day in my room, sidestepping any interactions.
Fast forward to now, and I can assert that I’ve formed some of the most meaningful friendships of my life. I’ve discovered a second family here at Imperial, and all it needed was for me to step outside my comfort zone and engage in small talk with others who were feeling similarly.
What’s the takeaway? Making that first move is always worthwhile. If you feel unprepared at the outset, don’t fret—there will be ample icebreaker events and chances to connect with others. Most importantly, be authentic. With such a varied student community, you’re sure to encounter individuals who share your interests and values.
### Adapting to Academic Demands
Another notable challenge was adjusting to the rigorous workload and the complexity of the material. The transition from A-levels to university was considerable, and the shift from the first to second term was even more pronounced. It’s easy to feel inundated and question your capabilities, especially when observing peers who seem more confident and prepared.
What assisted me in navigating this? Reminding myself that I was not alone. If I struggled with a concept, it was likely that many others were facing similar difficulties. The best lesson I learned was to reach out for help—whether from peers or instructors. Seeking assistance is not indicative of weakness; it is an essential skill for achieving success.
### The Value of Faculty Support
One of the most enriching aspects of my journey has been the outstanding support from the Materials Science department. The faculty genuinely wish for students to thrive and are consistently receptive to feedback. They recognize the challenges we face and actively strive to assist us throughout the year.
Even though I didn’t fully take advantage of the pastoral support until later in the year, I wish I had engaged with it sooner. Serving as a well-being representative allowed me to form connections with staff members, which proved immensely beneficial. There are numerous ways to engage with professors and academic advisors, and doing so can significantly enhance your university experience. My most important lesson? Utilize the available support—you can never have too much assistance!
### Final Thoughts
In retrospect, this year has shown me that the anxieties and uncertainties I harbored prior to embarking on my university journey were mostly unfounded. There is a wealth of support accessible, both from faculty and fellow students. I’ve come to realize that I’m never genuinely alone, and I’ve learned how to juggle academic challenges with enjoyment.
For anyone about to commence their university adventure, my advice is straightforward: take the plunge, seek help when needed, and seize every opportunity. University is a time of transformation, and with the right mindset, it can be an incredibly fulfilling experience.