**Reflections on My Initial Year in Materials Science and Engineering**
*Written by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)*
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I was overcome with anxiety, fear, and uncertainty regarding what lay ahead. I was about to begin my path as a first-year student 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 has always been shy and introverted, stepping into the unknown was daunting. However, reflecting on the past year, I recognize it as a time brimming with personal development, challenges, and a great deal of enjoyment. So, what insights have I gained, and where do I stand now?
### Forming Friendships: A Challenging Yet Fulfilling Journey
One of my most anxiety-inducing obstacles at the start was forming friendships. If you’re an incoming student reading this, you may share the same concerns. On my very first day of moving into my residence, a few days prior to the official start of term, I spent the entire day sequestered in my room, too intimidated to venture out and introduce myself. Fast forward to today, and I can proudly say I’ve formed some of the greatest friendships I’ve ever had. I now have a second family at Imperial, and it all began with casual conversations with others who were just as apprehensive as I was.
What did I take away from this experience? I discovered that making that initial move is essential. If you don’t feel prepared or at ease right away, that’s perfectly fine! There will be ample ice-breakers and events tailored to help you connect with others. Most importantly, remain authentic. With the multitude of diverse individuals across the course and the university, you’re sure to find those who resonate with your vibe.
### Managing the Workload: A Challenging Yet Achievable Learning Curve
Another considerable challenge was adapting to the workload and the complexity of the material. There was undoubtedly a marked increase from A-levels, and an even steeper rise between the first and second terms. It’s easy to feel daunted or question your skills when you observe others studying and seemingly thriving. But here’s the reality: everyone is navigating similar challenges. If you find something confusing, it’s likely that others do too. The key is to ask for support. This might be the most vital lesson I learned this year—don’t hesitate to reach out for help from classmates or faculty.
### Support from Faculty: An Essential Resource
Speaking of faculty, the team in the Materials Science department is exceptional. They genuinely care about your success and are fully aware of the obstacles students encounter. They empathize with us and maintain ongoing communication throughout the year to tackle any problems. I didn’t make the most of the available pastoral support until the latter part of the year, but I wish I had started using it sooner.
At the beginning of the year, I took the plunge by serving as a year well-being representative. This position enabled me to become more acquainted with the staff, which proved to be incredibly beneficial. There are numerous opportunities to connect with faculty, and I highly encourage you to take advantage of them. My main takeaway is to fully leverage the support offered—you can never have too much assistance!
### Concluding Thoughts: Celebrating the Journey
In summary, this year has shown me that the anxious feelings I faced before and during university were largely unfounded. With the extensive support available from both staff and fellow students, I learned that I am never truly alone. More importantly, I discovered how to enjoy myself while navigating the inevitable pressures of exams and deadlines.
By [Guest Blogger](https://blogs.imperial.ac.uk/student-blogs/author/bloggers/)
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