**Reflections on My Inaugural Year in Materials Science and Engineering**
*Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)*
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I was engulfed in anxiety, trepidation, and uncertainty about what was to come. I was on the verge of embarking on my adventure as a first-year student 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. For someone who had always been introverted and reserved, leaping into the unfamiliar felt overwhelming. Now, reflecting on the previous academic year, I recognize a time of significant personal development, numerous challenges, and a great deal of enjoyment. But what insights have I gained, and what is my current standing?
### Making Connections: The Initial Major Challenge
One of the most anxiety-inducing moments I encountered was forging friendships. If you’re perusing this as a future student, this might also be one of your primary concerns. On my first day settling into student housing, a few days prior to the official term commencement, I spent the whole day retreating in my room, too daunted to venture out and introduce myself. Fast forward to now, and I can assert with confidence that I’ve made some of the closest friends I’ve ever known. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, and it all initiated with casual conversations with people in similar situations.
So, what did I discover? I discovered that taking that first step is always worthwhile. If you don’t feel prepared or at ease, fear not! There will be numerous ice-breaking activities and chances to connect with others. Most importantly, be true to yourself. With such a varied group of individuals throughout the course and the university, you’re sure to find those who connect with you.
### Confronting the Workload and Curriculum
Another major challenge was adapting to the workload and the complexity of the materials. There was indeed a noticeable increase from A-levels, and the transition from the first term to the second felt even more pronounced. Being in such a demanding environment can occasionally shake your self-esteem, especially when observing others studying and feeling inadequate in comparison. But here’s the truth: everyone is navigating similar challenges. If you find something difficult to grasp, it’s likely that others share your confusion. The essential lesson is to seek assistance. This might be the most crucial lesson to absorb in your first year—never hesitate to reach out to your classmates and instructors.
### Assistance from the Faculty
Speaking of faculty, the professors in the Materials Science department are outstanding. They genuinely care about your success and are aware of the challenges faced by students. Throughout the year, they maintained open lines of communication with us, addressing any issues we raised. I didn’t fully leverage the pastoral support until the year’s end, but I wish I had utilized it earlier.
At the beginning of the year, I took a bold step by becoming a year well-being representative. This position enabled me to engage more with the staff, which was invaluable. There are many avenues to cultivate relationships with the faculty, and it’s among the best decisions you can make for yourself. My key takeaway from this experience is to utilize the support available—you can never have too much assistance!
### Closing Thoughts
In summary, this year has revealed to me that the apprehension I felt before and during university was mostly misplaced. With the abundant support from both faculty and peers, I was never genuinely alone. I’ve learned to manage exam anxiety and deadlines while still enjoying my time, and I’ve come to value the importance of seeking assistance and taking those initial daring steps into the unknown.
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*By [Guest Blogger](https://blogs.imperial.ac.uk/student-blogs/author/bloggers/)*
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