**Reflections on My Initial Year in Materials Science and Engineering**
*By Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)*
Ten months back, in October 2022, I was overcome with anxiety, uncertainty, and self-doubt about the road ahead. I was preparing to embark on 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 As an individual who has always been somewhat withdrawn and introverted, embarking on this fresh chapter felt daunting. Reflecting now, I recognize a year brimming with personal development, obstacles, and numerous unforgettable moments. But what insights have I gained, and what is my current stance?
### Conquering the Anxiety of Socializing
One of the foremost challenges I encountered at the beginning was establishing friendships. If you’re a prospective student, this might also be a significant worry for you. I vividly recall my first day settling into student housing—I felt so intimidated that I ended up spending the entire day in my room, too anxious to introduce myself to anyone.
Fast forward to now, and I can proudly declare that I’ve forged some of the greatest friendships I’ve ever experienced. Imperial has truly become a second home, and all it took was stepping outside of my comfort zone and engaging in light conversations with others in similar situations.
So, what have I learned? Firstly, taking the plunge early is consistently rewarding. If you don’t feel entirely prepared, that’s perfectly fine—there will be numerous networking events and chances to meet people. Secondly, just be true to yourself. With such a varied student body, you’re bound to encounter others who resonate with your interests and values.
### Adapting to Academic Demands
Another significant obstacle was acclimating to the academic workload and the complexity of the material. The shift from A-levels to university was substantial, and the transition from the first term to the second was even more rigorous. It’s normal to feel overwhelmed or question your capabilities when witnessing others study and seem to grasp concepts more swiftly.
What assisted me in navigating this was the understanding that I was not alone. If I struggled with a subject, it was likely that my peers did as well. The most valuable lesson I learned was to seek assistance—whether from classmates or faculty. Reaching out for help is not indicative of weakness; it’s one of the most crucial skills one can cultivate in their first year.
### The Value of Support Networks
One of the most comforting aspects of my journey was the exceptional support received from the Materials Science department. The staff genuinely aspire for students to thrive and are always receptive to feedback. They recognize the hurdles we encounter and actively strive to resolve them.
Although I didn’t fully leverage the pastoral support until later in the year, I wish I had utilized it earlier. At the start, I took the initiative to become a year well-being representative, which facilitated my connection with staff members. This proved to be immensely advantageous. There are numerous ways to engage with faculty, and doing so can profoundly enhance your university experience. My key takeaway? Never shy away from using the support available to you—you can never have an excess of help!
### Concluding Thoughts
In retrospect, my first year has shown me that the apprehension I felt before and during university was often unwarranted. There are countless support systems available, from staff to fellow students, that can ease the transition. Most importantly, I’ve come to realize that I’m never genuinely alone. Despite the strains of exams and deadlines, I’ve discovered ways to relish the journey and maximize my time at Imperial.
If you’re on the verge of starting university, my counsel is straightforward: take the plunge, seek help, and immerse yourself in the experience. You’ll evolve in ways you never anticipated, and you might just discover a second family along the way.