**Reflecting on My Initial Year: Insights Gained and Obstacles Surmounted**
*Composed by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)*
Ten months prior, in October 2022, I was engulfed by anxiety, apprehension, and uncertainty about what was to come. I was on the brink of beginning 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 an individual who had always been rather bashful and introverted, plunging into such an unfamiliar and overwhelming situation felt intimidating. Now, as I reflect on the previous academic year, I recognize it as a time of significant personal development, obstacles, and a great deal of joy. But what insights have I gained, and what is my current state?
### Conquering the Anxiety of Forming Friendships
One of the most anxiety-inducing challenges I encountered was forming friendships. If you are a prospective student reading this, you might share similar concerns. On my first day of moving into my accommodation, just a few days before the official start of the term, I spent the entire day sequestered in my room, too daunted to venture out and introduce myself to others. Fast forward to the present, and I can proudly assert that I’ve established some of the closest friendships I’ve ever had—friends who feel like family.
What aided me? It was merely starting with small interactions, engaging in light conversation with others who were experiencing the same uncertainties. The most crucial lesson I absorbed is that taking that first step is always worthwhile. If you don’t feel prepared or at ease, fret not—there will be ample ice-breakers and events designed to facilitate connections with others. Above all, just be yourself. With such a diverse array of individuals at the university, you are certain to find those who resonate with you.
### Navigating the Academic Demands
Another major challenge was acclimating to the workload and the heightened difficulty of the material. The transition from A-levels was certainly significant, and the shift from the first term to the second felt even more pronounced. Being thrust into this environment can occasionally shake your confidence, particularly when you witness others studying and feel as though you’re falling behind.
What carried me through this? The awareness that everyone is navigating similar struggles. If you find something perplexing, it’s likely that others are as well. The most vital lesson I gained in my first year is to seek assistance. Whether it’s from your classmates or the faculty, don’t hesitate to reach out when you’re encountering difficulties.
### Assistance from the Faculty
Speaking of faculty, the professors in the Materials department are exceptional. They truly want you to thrive and are fully cognizant of the hurdles students face. They empathize with us and maintain ongoing communication throughout the year to tackle any issues we might encounter. I didn’t fully leverage the pastoral support available until the end of the year, but I wish I had utilized it sooner.
At the start of the year, I took a bold step by becoming a year well-being representative. This position allowed me to become better acquainted with the staff, which proved to be immensely beneficial. There are numerous opportunities to engage with faculty, and doing so is one of the best choices you can make for yourself. My key insight? Make the most of the support offered—you can never have too much assistance.
### Concluding Thoughts
In conclusion, this past year has revealed to me that the anxiety I experienced before and during my time at university was largely unwarranted. With the plethora of support options provided by both staff and fellow students, I learned that I was never truly on my own. Most importantly, I discovered how to balance stress from exams and deadlines with moments of joy and fun.
By [Guest Blogger](https://blogs.imperial.ac.uk/student-blogs/author/bloggers/)
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