**Reflecting on 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 nerves, uncertainty, and doubt about what awaited me. I was on the brink of starting 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 had always been quiet and introverted, transitioning into this new phase felt daunting. In hindsight, I recognize a year abundant in personal development, hurdles, and countless unforgettable experiences. But what insights have I gained, and where do I find myself today?
### Conquering the Anxiety of Forming Friendships
One of the most significant obstacles I encountered early on was the challenge of making friends. If you’re an incoming student, you might have similar concerns. I recall my first day while moving into student housing—I was so apprehensive that I spent the whole day in my room, too nervous to introduce myself to anyone else.
Fast forward to now, and I’m pleased to say that I’ve formed some of the greatest friendships I could have hoped for. I’ve found a second family at Imperial, and it all began with simple conversations with others who were experiencing the same apprehensions.
So, what did I take away from this? Taking that initial step—regardless of how intimidating it may seem—is always beneficial. If you don’t feel prepared immediately, don’t stress! There are numerous ice-breaker events and chances to meet new faces. Most importantly, remain authentic. With such a varied student body, you’re sure to discover individuals who resonate with your interests and values.
### Adapting to Academic Demands
Another significant challenge was adjusting to the workload and the heightened complexity of the material. The leap from A-levels to university was substantial, and the shift from the first term to the second was even more demanding. It’s easy to feel swamped and question your capabilities, particularly when observing others engaging in intense study sessions.
What assisted me during this time was the reminder that I was not alone. If I found a topic difficult, chances were that others were struggling as well. The most important lesson I learned was to seek assistance—be it from classmates or faculty. Asking for help is one of the most essential skills you can acquire in your first year.
### Valuing Interaction with Faculty
One of the most rewarding aspects of my journey has been the exceptional support from the Materials Science department. The faculty genuinely want students to thrive, and they are aware of the challenges we encounter. They maintain consistent communication with us throughout the academic year to address our concerns.
I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral resources available until later in the year, but I wish I had taken advantage of them earlier. Early on, I took a step and became a year well-being representative, which facilitated connections with staff members. Familiarizing yourself with your professors and academic advisors can be tremendously advantageous, and there are various ways to do this. My key takeaway? Utilize the support accessible to you—there is no such thing as too much help!
### Concluding Thoughts
Reflecting on my first year, I realize that many of my initial anxieties were unfounded. The assistance from both faculty and peers has been invaluable in helping me navigate university life. I’ve come to understand that I’m never truly on my own, and I’ve found a way to balance academic responsibilities with enjoying my time at Imperial.
For anyone about to embark on their university adventure: embrace the journey, take those initial steps, and don’t hesitate to seek help. You’ll evolve in ways you never expected, and you might just discover a second home in the process.