**Reflections 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 anxiety, uncertainty, and skepticism about the future. I was on the brink 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 quiet, embarking on this new journey felt daunting. Reflecting now, I realize that this year brought significant personal development, obstacles, and an abundance of unforgettable experiences. But what insights have I gained, and where am I today?
### Conquering the Anxiety of Forming Friendships
One of the primary obstacles I encountered early on was the challenge of forging friendships. If you’re a future student, this may be a concern for you as well. I vividly recall my first day in accommodation—I stayed in my room for the entire day, too nervous to venture out and introduce myself. Yet, fast forward to now, and I can say with assurance that I’ve cultivated some of the best friendships I’ve ever had.
What was the key takeaway? Take that first step. Even if you feel unprepared, there will be numerous ice-breaker events and chances to meet new people. Most importantly, just be yourself. Given the diverse student community, you are sure to connect with individuals who align with your interests and values.
### Adapting to the Academic Demands
Another significant challenge was adjusting to the academic demands and the heightened complexity of the subject matter. The transition from A-levels was striking, and the shift from the first term to the second was even more daunting. It’s easy to become overwhelmed and question your capabilities, especially when observing others studying fervently.
How did I manage this? I reminded myself that I wasn’t alone. If I found something difficult to grasp, it was likely that others felt the same way. The best advice I can share is to seek assistance—whether from classmates or faculty. Pursuing help is one of the most beneficial skills you can cultivate in your freshman year.
### The Significance of Connecting with Faculty
On the topic of support, the teaching staff in the Materials department are exceptional. They genuinely care about students’ success and are always receptive to feedback and communication. Although I didn’t fully utilize pastoral support until later in the year, I now wish I had done so sooner.
At the start of the year, I took a bold step by becoming a year well-being representative. This position allowed me to forge connections with faculty members, which turned out to be incredibly valuable. There are numerous ways to engage with staff, and doing so can significantly enrich your university experience. My main takeaway? Make the most of the support available—you can never have too much assistance.
### Concluding Thoughts
In hindsight, this year has shown me that many of the anxieties I harbored before entering university were unfounded. Thanks to the right support from both staff and fellow students, I was able to overcome challenges and build my confidence. Most importantly, I discovered how to balance academic demands while savoring my university experience.
For anyone on the brink of starting their journey, my advice is straightforward: embrace the adventure, seek support when necessary, and remember that you’re never on your own.
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*By [Guest Blogger](https://blogs.imperial.ac.uk/student-blogs/author/bloggers/)*
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