**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 brimming with nerves, uncertainty, and anxiety about what awaited me. I was on the verge of embarking on 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 always leaned towards being shy and introverted, entering this new phase felt daunting. Now, in retrospect, I recognize a year marked by personal development, obstacles, and remarkable experiences. But what insights have I gained, and what is my current stance?
### Conquering the Anxiety of Forming Friendships
One of the most daunting elements of beginning university was forging friendships. If you’re an upcoming student reading this, you may resonate with those feelings. On my first day in student housing—just days before the term officially kicked off—I was so anxious that I ended up spending the whole day in my room, too apprehensive to venture out and introduce myself.
Fast forward to now, and I can confidently assert that I’ve forged some of the closest friendships I’ve ever known. I’ve discovered a second family here at Imperial, and all it took was a few brief conversations with individuals in similar situations.
So, what did I take away from this experience? Taking that first step is always worthwhile. Even if you don’t feel prepared, there will be countless ice-breaker activities and chances to connect with others. Above all, just be yourself—Imperial is filled with diverse people, and you’re sure to find friends who think like you.
### Adapting to Academic Demands
Another significant challenge was adjusting to the workload and the heightened complexity of university-level material. The shift from A-levels was notable, and the leap from the first to the second term proved to be even more demanding. It’s easy to feel daunted or question your abilities when you’re surrounded by diligent peers.
What enabled me to persevere was the realization that everyone faces difficulties at some point. If you find something perplexing, likely, others are experiencing the same thing. The best course of action is to seek assistance—whether it be from your classmates or the teaching staff. Cultivating the skill to seek support is one of the most valuable lessons you can acquire in your first year.
### The Significance of Seeking Assistance
On the topic of support, the staff in the Materials department are exceptional. They genuinely care about students’ success and are always receptive to feedback. They recognize the challenges we encounter and consistently communicate to address any issues.
I didn’t fully capitalize on the pastoral support available until the year was winding down, but I wish I had done so sooner. At the start of the year, I took a significant step by becoming a year well-being representative. This role allowed me to foster connections with staff members, which turned out to be immensely advantageous. There are numerous ways to engage with faculty, and doing so can greatly enhance your university experience. My primary takeaway? Take advantage of the support available—you can never have too much assistance!
### Final Thoughts
Reflecting on this past year, I’ve realized that the fears and apprehensions I harbored prior to starting university were mostly exaggerated. With the appropriate support—from both staff and fellow students—those concerns became manageable. I’ve discovered that I’m never entirely alone and that it’s feasible to balance academic demands with a fulfilling university experience.
If you are about to begin your own adventure at Imperial, my advice is straightforward: embrace the challenges, seek help when necessary, and seize every chance to grow. You’ll be astonished by what you can accomplish in just one year.