**Thoughts on My Initial Year in Materials Science and Engineering**
*By Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)*
Nearly ten months ago, in October 2022, I was engulfed in nerves, uncertainty, and apprehension about the future. I was on the brink of commencing 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 had previously been quite reserved and timid, jumping into this new experience felt a bit daunting. Now, reflecting on my first year, I perceive it as a journey filled with personal development, obstacles, and numerous unforgettable moments. But what insights have I gained, and where do I find myself today?
### Conquering the Fear of Friendships
A significant challenge I encountered early was the quest for friendship. If you’re a future student, this might be a concern for you as well. On my inaugural day in student housing, just prior to the term kicking off, I spent the entire day in my room, too apprehensive to venture out and introduce myself. However, looking at where I am now, I can assert that I’ve formed some of the finest friendships I’ve ever known. Imperial has turned into a second home for me, and it all started when I stepped outside my comfort zone and engaged in casual conversations with others in similar situations.
The essential lesson? Take the plunge early. Even if you don’t feel prepared, there will be numerous ice-breaker activities and chances to connect with others. Most crucially, just be yourself. With a richly diverse student community, you’re certain to find individuals who resonate with your interests and principles.
### Adapting to Academic Demands
Another considerable obstacle was adjusting to the volume of work and the increased complexity of the material. The transition from A-levels to university proved to be substantial, and the shift from the first to the second term felt even more pronounced. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed and question your abilities, especially when observing classmates who appear to grasp concepts more swiftly.
What aided me during this period was the realization that everyone is experiencing similar challenges. If you’re having difficulty understanding a topic, it’s likely that others are as well. The most effective course of action is to ask for assistance—whether from classmates or instructors. Learning to seek help is one of the most critical abilities you can cultivate in your first year.
### The Value of Staff Support
Speaking of support, the faculty in the Materials department are outstanding. They genuinely care about student success and comprehend the difficulties we encounter. Throughout the year, they kept lines of communication open and offered invaluable advice.
Although I didn’t fully take advantage of the pastoral support until later in the year, I wish I had done so earlier. One of the best choices I made was to become a Year Well-being Representative. This position enabled me to build connections with staff members, which turned out to be extremely advantageous. There are numerous avenues to interact with faculty, and doing so can significantly enrich your university journey. My key takeaway? Make the most of the support available—you can never have too much assistance!
### Final Thoughts
Reflecting on the past year, I’ve come to realize that the fears and anxieties I held before commencing university were mostly unfounded. With the proper backing from both faculty and peers, those concerns rapidly dissipated. I’ve discovered that I’m never genuinely alone and that a balance can be struck between academic demands and a fulfilling university lifestyle.
For anyone embarking on their journey at Imperial, my straightforward advice is: seize the opportunities, seek assistance when necessary, and above all, relish the experience!