**Reflections on My Initial Year in Materials Science and Engineering**
*By Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)*
A decade ago, in October 2022, I was consumed by anxiety, uncertainty, and self-doubt regarding the future. I was preparing to embark on my inaugural 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. Being someone who has always been introverted and modest, starting this new phase was daunting. Reflecting now, I realize that the past year has been a journey of personal development, challenges, and remarkable experiences. But what insights have I gained, and where do I stand now?
### Conquering the Anxiety of Making Connections
One of the primary obstacles I encountered at the beginning of my university journey was forging friendships. If you’re an incoming student, this may be a concern for you too. I recall my first day of moving into student housing—I was so anxious that I spent the whole day in my room, too afraid to introduce myself to anyone.
Now, looking back, I can confidently say that I’ve formed some of the best friendships of my life. The individuals I’ve met here have become like a second family to me. All it took was stepping beyond my comfort zone and engaging in casual conversations with others facing similar situations.
So, what have I discovered? That initial step is always worthwhile. If you don’t feel prepared, don’t panic—there will be countless ice-breaker events and chances to meet others. Most importantly, stay true to yourself. With such a varied student community, you’re sure to find others who align with your interests and values.
### Adapting to Academic Rigor
Another significant challenge was acclimating to the workload and complexity of the course material. The transition from A-levels was substantial, and the jump from the first term to the second was even greater. It was easy to feel inundated, particularly when observing peers study and questioning whether I was keeping pace.
What assisted me in navigating this was the reminder that we were all experiencing similar challenges. If I struggled to grasp a concept, it was likely that my classmates did too. The most valuable lesson I learned was to seek assistance—whether from colleagues or the academic staff.
### The Value of Seeking Help
Speaking of faculty, one of the most beneficial elements of my experience has been the remarkable support from the Materials Science department. The lecturers and tutors sincerely want us to thrive, and they recognize the hurdles we encounter. They regularly reach out to us throughout the academic year, ensuring that our concerns are acknowledged.
I didn’t fully utilize the available pastoral support until later on, but I wish I had taken advantage of it earlier. One of the best choices I made was becoming a well-being representative for my cohort. This position allowed me to engage with staff members, and it was incredibly rewarding. There are numerous ways to cultivate relationships with faculty, and doing so can significantly enhance your university experience. My key takeaway? Never hold back from asking for help—there’s no such thing as excessive support.
### Concluding Thoughts
As I reflect on my first year, I’ve come to understand that many of my initial fears were unwarranted. The difficulties I encountered—whether academic or social—were manageable due to the support provided by both staff and fellow students. Most importantly, I’ve learned that I am never alone. University presents its share of stress, but it’s also a chance to evolve, connect with others, and savor the journey.
If you’re about to embark on your university path and feeling apprehensive, know that such feelings are completely normal. Take that initial step, don’t hesitate to seek assistance when needed, and fully engage with the experience. You may just astonish yourself with how much you develop along the way.