**Thoughts on My Inaugural Year of Studying Materials Science and Engineering**
*By Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)*
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I found myself filled with anxiety, uncertainty, and trepidation regarding what the future would hold. I was on the cusp of commencing 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 someone who has always tended to be introverted and reserved, embarking on this new phase of my life felt like a daunting challenge. Reflecting on this past year, I see a journey rich with personal development, obstacles, and numerous unforgettable moments. But what insights have I gained, and what is my current perspective?
### Confronting the Anxiety of Forming Friendships
One of the primary hurdles I encountered was the process of making new friends. If you’re a potential student, this is likely a significant concern for you as well. On my inaugural day in student housing, I remained cocooned in my room, too daunted to venture out and introduce myself. Yet, as I sit here now, I can proudly say that I’ve formed some of the best friendships I’ve ever experienced. Imperial has truly become a second home, and all it required was stepping outside my comfort zone and initiating casual conversations with others in similar situations.
So, what lesson did I learn? Taking that initial step is always beneficial. If you’re not feeling ready immediately, that’s perfectly fine—opportunities for icebreaking events and meeting new faces will abound. Most crucially, I discovered that being authentic is the best strategy. With such a varied student population, you’re sure to encounter those who resonate with your interests and principles.
### Adapting to the Academic Demands
Another significant challenge was adjusting to the academic load and the heightened complexity of the material. The leap from A-levels to university was considerable, and the transition between the first and second terms was even more rigorous. It’s easy to feel daunted or question your capabilities when you observe others studying with confidence. However, one of the crucial lessons I learned is that everyone shares similar struggles. If you’re having difficulty grasping a concept, it’s likely that others are facing the same issue—so don’t hesitate to seek assistance. Reaching out for support from classmates and faculty is one of the best choices you can make in your first year.
### The Significance of Seeking Assistance
This leads me to another important insight: the exceptional support from the Materials Science department. The staff genuinely care about students’ success and recognize the challenges we encounter. They maintain clear communication throughout the academic year and are always eager to assist.
I didn’t fully utilize the available pastoral support until the end of the year, a decision I now wish I had made much earlier. At the outset, I ventured to become a year well-being representative, which enabled me to establish connections with staff—something I found immensely beneficial. There are numerous ways to engage with staff, and doing so can significantly enrich your university experience. My recommendation? Take full advantage of the support at your disposal—you can never have too much help!
### Concluding Thoughts
In retrospective contemplation, this past year has taught me that the trepidation I felt prior to starting university was largely unwarranted. There are a plethora of support systems available, from faculty to fellow students, ensuring that no one has to navigate this journey alone. I’ve learned how to handle the stress of exams and deadlines while still appreciating my university experience.
If you’re on the verge of beginning your first year, my foremost advice is to embrace the challenges, seek help as needed, and most importantly, remain true to yourself. University is a period of growth, and with the right attitude, it can become an exceptionally rewarding adventure.