**Insights from My Initial Year in Materials Science and Engineering**
*By Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)*
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, uncertainty, and apprehension about what was to come. I was on the verge of starting 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 introverted and reserved, diving into this new phase was daunting. Looking back now, I recognize a year marked by personal development, obstacles, and numerous unforgettable moments. But what insights have I gained, and where do I find myself now?
### Conquering the Anxiety of Forming Friendships
One of the foremost challenges I encountered early on was the task of making friends. If you’re an incoming student reading this, you may resonate with those feelings. On my first day at the student accommodation, I felt so overwhelmed by the prospect of introducing myself that I ended up spending the whole day in my room. However, fast forward to now, and I can proudly say that I’ve forged some of the most meaningful friendships I’ve ever had. Imperial has truly become a second home for me, and it all began with stepping beyond my comfort zone and initiating small conversations with fellow students facing similar challenges.
So, what was my takeaway? First off, taking that first step is always beneficial. If you feel unprepared, don’t fret—there are numerous icebreaker events and chances to connect with new people. Secondly, just be true to yourself. With such an eclectic mix of students, you’re sure to find individuals who resonate with your interests and principles.
### Adapting to Academic Demands
Another significant obstacle was navigating the workload and the heightened complexity of the coursework. The shift from A-levels to university was substantial, and the transition from the first to the second term was even more daunting. At times, I questioned my competence, especially when I observed others studying with apparent ease.
What supported me through this period was the realization that everyone was navigating similar challenges. If I struggled with a concept, it was likely that others did as well. The essential lesson here? Don’t hesitate to ask for assistance! Whether from classmates or lecturers, seeking help is one of the most crucial proficiencies to cultivate in your first year.
### The Value of Staff Support
Speaking of assistance, the faculty in the Materials Science department have been outstanding. They sincerely care about student success and are aware of the hurdles we encounter. They maintain open lines of communication throughout the year, making sure our issues are acknowledged.
Although I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support until later in the year, I wish I had embraced it earlier. One of the best choices I made was to become a well-being representative for my year. This position allowed me to build connections with staff members, which proved to be invaluable. There are numerous ways to foster relationships with professors and academic personnel, and doing so can significantly enrich your university experience. My main takeaway? Leverage the support accessible to you—there’s no such thing as receiving too much help!
### Concluding Thoughts
Reflecting on this past year, I’ve realized that the apprehension I felt before entering university was entirely normal—and frequently unwarranted. There are so many support mechanisms in place, from staff to fellow students, that nobody needs to navigate their journey in isolation. Most importantly, I’ve discovered how to balance academic demands with enjoying the university experience.
For anyone preparing to embark on their own university adventure, my guidance is straightforward: take the plunge, seek help whenever necessary, and seize every opportunity that comes your way.
—
*By [Guest Blogger](https://blogs.imperial.ac.uk/student-blogs/author/bloggers/)*
**Categories:** Uncategorised
**Tags:** [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/)