**Thoughts on My Initial Year in Materials Science and Engineering**
*By Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)*
Ten months prior, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, uncertainty, and skepticism about what was to come. I was preparing to launch 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 has always been somewhat shy and introverted, entering this new phase felt daunting. Reflecting now, I perceive a year brimming with personal development, obstacles, and countless unforgettable moments. But what insights have I gained, and what is my current standing?
### Conquering the Anxiety of Forming Connections
One of the foremost challenges I encountered at the outset was establishing friendships. If you’re a future student, this might be an area of concern for you as well. On my inaugural day in student housing—only days before the term commenced—I was so apprehensive that I remained in my room the entire day, too anxious to reach out to anyone.
Fast forward to now, and I can assert with confidence that I’ve forged some of the most meaningful friendships I’ve ever experienced. Imperial has transformed into a second home, and the people I’ve connected with here feel like family. All it took was stepping beyond my comfort zone and engaging in casual conversations with others who were in similar situations.
So, what insights did I glean? First, taking that first step is invariably worthwhile. If you don’t feel prepared instantly, don’t fret—there will be an abundance of ice-breaker events and opportunities to connect with others. Second, authenticity is paramount. With such a diverse student body, you’re sure to encounter individuals who align with your interests and values.
### Adapting to Academic Demands
Another significant challenge was acclimating to the academic workload and the complexity of the course material. The transition from A-levels to university was drastic, and the shift from the first term to the second was even more pronounced. It’s easy to feel inundated or question your capabilities, especially when observing others studying and assuming they have everything under control.
What aided me during these challenging moments was the realization that I was not alone. If I was struggling to grasp something, it was likely that others were as well. The most beneficial lesson I embraced was to seek assistance—whether from classmates or professors. Asking for help is not a weakness; it’s among the most essential skills to cultivate during your first year.
### The Value of Staff Support
One aspect that truly impressed me about the Materials Science department was the remarkable support from the staff. They sincerely desire to see students thrive and are always receptive to feedback. Throughout the year, they kept open lines of communication with us, addressing our concerns and providing guidance.
Although I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support until later in the academic year, I wish I had engaged with it sooner. One of my best decisions was to become a year well-being representative. This position enabled me to form connections with staff members, which proved to be immensely beneficial. There are numerous ways to engage with faculty, and doing so can significantly enrich your university experience. My most significant takeaway? Take full advantage of the support at your disposal—you can never have too much assistance.
### Final Thoughts
Reflecting on my first year, I’ve realized that the apprehension I felt—both before and during university—was largely unnecessary. There are numerous support systems available, from staff to peers, ensuring that no one has to face challenges alone. More importantly, I’ve discovered how to manage academic demands while also enjoying university life.
If you’re on the brink of beginning your journey at Imperial, my guidance is straightforward: take the plunge, seek help when necessary, and welcome every opportunity that comes your way. You’ll be amazed at how much you evolve throughout the process.
—
**By [Guest Blogger](https://blogs.imperial.ac.uk/student-blogs/author/bloggers/)**
*Categorised under: Uncategorised*
*Tagged: [Courses](https://blogs.imperial.ac.uk/student-blogs/tag/courses/), [Featured](https://blogs.imperial.ac.uk/student-blogs/tag/featured/), [First Year](https://blogs.imperial.ac.uk/student-blogs/tag/first-year/), [Imperial College London](https://blogs.imperial.ac.uk/student-blogs/tag/imperial-college-london/)*