**Reflections 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 consumed by anxiety, uncertainty, and apprehension about the future. I was on the brink of embarking on 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. Having always been on the shy and reserved side, entering this new chapter felt quite daunting. Reflecting now, I see a year marked by personal development, obstacles, and a lot of enjoyment. But what insights have I gained, and what is my current position?
### Conquering the Anxiety of Forming Friendships
One of the most significant hurdles I encountered at the beginning of university was the quest to make friends. If you’re a future student, this might be a top concern for you as well. I recall arriving at my accommodation a few days prior to the term and spending an entire day cooped up in my room, too fearful to venture out and meet others.
Fast forward to the present, and I can proudly state that I’ve formed some of the most meaningful friendships I’ve ever had. I’ve discovered a second family here at Imperial, and it all began with stepping outside my comfort zone and engaging in casual conversations with individuals in similar circumstances.
What did I learn? Taking that initial plunge at the beginning of the year always pays off. If you don’t feel prepared, don’t fret—plenty of icebreaker activities and chances to meet new faces will arise. Most importantly, just be authentic. With such a varied student community, you’re sure to encounter others who share your interests and values.
### Adapting to Academic Demands
Another crucial challenge was getting used to the academic workload and the heightened complexity of the material. The transition from A-levels to university was substantial, and the shift from the first term to the second was even tougher.
It’s easy to feel daunted when you observe others studying and worry that you might not measure up. However, one of the most important lessons I picked up is that everyone is navigating similar waters. If you’re finding a concept difficult, it’s likely that many others are too—so don’t hesitate to seek assistance. Learning to reach out for support from both peers and faculty is one of the most essential skills you can cultivate in your first year.
### The Value of Seeking Assistance
On the topic of support, the teaching staff in the Materials department are fantastic. They truly want students to excel and are consistently receptive to feedback and dialogue. Throughout the year, they’ve demonstrated immense empathy and understanding of our struggles.
I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support available until later in the year, but I regret not doing so earlier. One of the best choices I made was becoming a year well-being representative. This position allowed me to cultivate connections with staff members, which turned out to be incredibly beneficial. There are countless ways to engage with faculty, and doing so can greatly elevate your university experience. My key takeaway? Make the most of the support systems available to you—you can never receive too much help!
### Concluding Thoughts
Reflecting on my first year, I’ve realized that the anxiety I experienced before beginning university was largely unwarranted. There are abundant support mechanisms in place, from staff to fellow students, ensuring that no one ever has to feel isolated. Most importantly, I’ve discovered how to balance academic demands with enjoying my time at university.
If you’re about to embark on your own university adventure, my advice is straightforward: take that leap, seek help when necessary, and fully embrace the experience. You’ll grow more than you ever anticipated.