**Thoughts on My Initial Year at Imperial College London**
*By Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)*
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I was brimming with nerves, uncertainty, and apprehension about what was to come. I was on the verge 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 someone who has always been somewhat introverted, entering this new phase felt daunting. Now, reflecting on the past academic year, I recognize a journey filled with personal growth, obstacles, and amazing experiences. But what insights have I gained, and where do I find myself now?
### Conquering the Anxiety of Friendships
One of the most significant hurdles I encountered early on was the challenge of making friends. If you’re an incoming student, this may be one of your foremost worries as well. I recall my first day in student housing—I spent the entire day in my room, too fearful to venture out and introduce myself. However, fast forward to now, and I can proudly state that I’ve forged some of the greatest friendships I’ve ever known. Imperial has transformed into a second home, and it all began with me stepping outside my comfort zone and engaging in casual conversations with others who were experiencing similar feelings.
What did I discover? Taking that first brave step is always worthwhile. If you don’t feel prepared immediately, don’t fret—there are countless icebreaker events and chances to connect with others. Most importantly, be authentic. With such a varied student community, you’re likely to meet individuals who resonate with your interests and principles.
### Adapting to the Academic Demands
Another significant challenge was adjusting to the intensity of the workload and the heightened complexity of the material. The transition from A-levels to university was substantial, and the shift from the first to the second term felt even more pronounced. At times, watching others study made me question my capabilities. However, I soon understood that everyone was grappling with similar difficulties. If I struggled with a particular concept, there was a good chance that my peers were facing the same situation.
The best advice I can offer? Don’t hesitate to seek assistance. This is one of the most essential skills to cultivate in your first year. Whether it’s connecting with classmates or asking for help from professors, make sure to ask questions.
### Assistance from Faculty and Pastoral Care
One of the most precious aspects of my experience has been the exceptional support from the Materials Science department. The staff genuinely cares about students’ success and are always receptive to feedback. They recognize the challenges we encounter and actively strive to assist us.
Although I didn’t fully tap into pastoral support until later in the year, I wish I had done so earlier. One of the wisest choices I made was to become a year well-being representative. This position allowed me to build connections with staff members, which turned out to be tremendously rewarding. There are numerous avenues to foster relationships with faculty, and doing so can significantly enrich your university experience. My greatest takeaway? Make the most of the support on offer—you can never have too much assistance!
### Concluding Thoughts
Reflecting on this year, it has shown me that the apprehension I felt before and during my university journey was often unfounded. There is a plethora of support available, both from faculty and fellow students, to help tackle any hurdles. Most crucially, I’ve realized that I’m never truly alone. Despite the strains of exams and deadlines, I’ve managed to find joy in my time at Imperial, and I wouldn’t exchange this experience for anything.
If you’re on the cusp of starting your university adventure, embrace the obstacles, seek support when necessary, and above all, savor the experience!