**Reflecting on My Initial Year of Studying Materials Science and Engineering**
*By Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)*
Ten months prior, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, uncertainty, and skepticism about what the future held. As a first-year student set to embark on my degree 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), the transition felt intimidating. Stepping out of my comfort zone was unfamiliar territory for me. Now, reflecting on the past year, I recognize a journey filled with personal development, obstacles, and numerous unforgettable experiences. But what insights have I gained, and what is my current perspective?
### Conquering the Anxiety of Forming Friendships
A significant challenge I encountered was the task of forging new friendships. This is frequently one of the most daunting elements of starting university, and if you’re an incoming student, it might be a concern for you as well. On my first day at my student accommodation, I spent the entire day in my room, too anxious to venture out and introduce myself. However, sitting here today, I can assertively claim that I have formed some of the most remarkable friendships of my life during my time at university.
I now view my friends at Imperial as a second family, and it all began with a bit of casual conversation with individuals who were experiencing similar feelings. My primary takeaway? It’s always worthwhile to take that initial leap. If you’re not feeling prepared, that’s perfectly okay—there will be numerous icebreaker events and chances to meet others. Most importantly, just be yourself. With such a varied student community, you’re certain to discover individuals who share your interests and values.
### Navigating the Academic Demands
Another significant challenge was adapting to the academic workload and the elevated complexity of the material. The transition from A-levels to university was substantial, and the shift from the first term to the second felt even more pronounced. It’s easy to become overwhelmed and question your capabilities, especially when observing peers who seem to grasp concepts more swiftly.
What assisted me through this phase was the affirmation that everyone is experiencing similar challenges. If you find yourself struggling with a subject, it’s likely that others are as well. The best course of action is to seek assistance—whether from classmates or faculty. Learning to ask for support is one of the crucial skills to cultivate in your first year.
### The Value of Staff Support
One of the most treasured aspects of my journey has been the extraordinary support from the Materials Science department. The faculty genuinely cares about student success and is consistently receptive to feedback. They comprehend the obstacles we encounter and actively strive to assist us.
I didn’t fully utilize the available pastoral support until later in the year, but I wish I had done so earlier. At the year’s outset, I took a proactive step and became a well-being representative for my cohort. This role enabled me to establish connections with faculty members, which turned out to be incredibly advantageous. There are many avenues to engage with faculty, and doing so can significantly enhance your university experience. My suggestion? Make the most of the support resources—there’s no such thing as too much assistance!
### Key Lessons from My First Year
Looking back, this past year has revealed to me that the anxieties I harbored prior to commencing university were mostly ungrounded. There is an abundance of support from both staff and fellow students available to help navigate the complexities of university life. I’ve discovered that I am never truly alone and that achieving a balance between academic demands and an enjoyable, enriching student experience is entirely feasible.
If you are on the brink of starting university, my advice is straightforward: take that first step, reach out for help when needed, and embrace the adventure. You will grow in ways you never anticipated, and before you realize it, you’ll be reflecting on a remarkable year of learning and self-exploration.