### Insights from My First Year at Imperial College London
*Written by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)*
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, fear, and uncertainty about the future. I was getting ready to start 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 had always been somewhat shy, embarking on this new chapter felt daunting. Now that I reflect back, I see a year rich with personal development, challenges, and a lot of enjoyment. But what insights have I gained, and where do I find myself now?
#### Conquering the Fear of Friendship
One of the most significant obstacles I encountered was forming friendships. If you’re an incoming student, you might share similar concerns. On my first day at my student accommodation, the thought of meeting new people was so daunting that I ended up spending the entire day in my room. Yet, as I write this today, I can proudly say that I’ve formed some of the best friendships I’ve ever had. Imperial has truly become a second home for me, and all it required was stepping beyond my comfort zone and striking up casual conversations with others in similar circumstances.
So, what’s the takeaway? Taking that initial step is always fruitful. If you feel unprepared, don’t fret—there will be numerous ice-breaker events and chances to connect with peers. Most importantly, remain authentic. With such a diverse student community, you’re sure to find others who resonate with your interests and values.
#### Adapting to the Academic Demands
Another significant challenge was adjusting to the academic workload and the complexity of the course material. The transition from A-levels to university was substantial, and the leap from the first term to the second was even more pronounced. It’s natural to feel overwhelmed and question your capabilities, especially when you observe others studying and appearing more self-assured.
What assisted me was the understanding that everyone is navigating similar challenges. If you’re struggling with a topic, it’s likely that your peers are as well. The essential thing is to seek help—whether from classmates or academic staff. Learning to ask for assistance is one of the most crucial skills you can cultivate during your first year.
#### The Value of Support from Faculty
Talking about support, the academic staff in the Materials department are exceptional. They genuinely care about students’ success and recognize the hurdles we encounter. Throughout the year, they kept open lines of communication and offered valuable insights.
I didn’t fully utilize the available pastoral support until later in the year, but I wish I had engaged with it sooner. One of the best choices I made was to become a year well-being representative, which helped me connect with faculty members and proved immensely beneficial. There are countless ways to engage with the staff, and doing so can greatly enhance your university experience. My key lesson? Take advantage of the available support—you can never receive too much assistance.
#### Concluding Thoughts
Reflecting back, this year has shown me that the fears I held before entering university were largely unfounded. Numerous support systems—from faculty to fellow students—ensure that no one has to undertake this journey in isolation. I’ve discovered how to balance pressure with enjoyment, and most importantly, I’ve gained confidence.
If you’re about to embark on your university journey and feeling apprehensive, remember that it’s entirely normal. Take that initial step, don’t hesitate to seek assistance when necessary, and fully embrace the experience. You may find, as I did, that it can become one of the most fulfilling years of your life.