**Reflecting 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 a mix of nerves, uncertainty, and excitement as I geared up to embark 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). Stepping into the unfamiliar was intimidating, especially for someone who has always been on the quieter side. Reflecting on the past year, I see a period of personal development, challenges, and unforgettable moments. But what insights have I gained, and what is my current standing?
### Conquering the Anxiety of Making Connections
One of the most considerable obstacles I encountered at the onset of university was the task of making new friends. If you’re an incoming student, this may resonate with your own worries. On my first day in student housing, I was so daunted that I hid away in my room all day, far too anxious to approach others. Nonetheless, as the year unfolded, I cultivated some of the deepest friendships I’ve ever experienced. Imperial has transformed into a second home for me, and all it required was pushing past my comfort zone and initiating conversations with fellow students going through the same experiences.
What did I discover? Taking that first step is always valuable. If you don’t feel prepared at the outset, that’s perfectly fine—there are numerous ice-breaking activities and chances to socialize. Most importantly, remain true to yourself. With such a diverse group of students, you’re sure to connect with individuals who resonate with your interests and values.
### Navigating the Academic Demands
Another significant challenge was adjusting to the workload and the heightened complexity of the material. The transition from A-levels to university was quite pronounced, and the shift from the first to the second term felt even more demanding. It’s easy to become overwhelmed or question your abilities when observing others study, but it’s essential to remember that everyone is navigating similar challenges.
If something remains unclear, it’s likely that your peers are facing struggles as well. The best course of action is to reach out for assistance—whether it’s from classmates or instructors. Learning to seek support early in your first year is one of the most beneficial skills you can acquire.
### The Value of Staff Support
A reassuring element of my course has been the remarkable support from the teaching staff. They genuinely care about student success and are always receptive to feedback and discussions regarding any difficulties we encounter. Although I didn’t take full advantage of pastoral support until later in the year, I now wish I had sought it out sooner.
At the year’s start, I made a bold move and took on the role of a well-being representative. This position enabled me to foster relationships with staff members, which proved to be incredibly advantageous. There are countless opportunities to engage with your lecturers and tutors, and doing so can significantly enhance your academic experience. My key takeaway? Utilize the support that’s at your disposal—you can never have too much assistance!
### Final Thoughts
As I reflect on my first year, I’ve come to understand that many of my initial anxieties were unfounded. The backing from both faculty and peers has guided me through challenges, and I’ve realized that I’m never truly on my own. Most importantly, I’ve learned how to balance academic demands with enjoying the university experience.
If you’re on the brink of starting your own university adventure, know that feeling nervous is completely normal. However, with time, support, and a willingness to step outside your comfort zone, you’ll discover your place—just as I have.