**Reflections on My Initial Year in Materials Science and Engineering**
*By Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)*
Ten months prior, in October 2022, I was overcome with anxiety, uncertainty, and apprehension about what was to come. I was on the verge of commencing my first year 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. Transitioning from being quite shy and introverted made this new journey feel overwhelming. Now, reflecting back, I recognize a year brimming with personal development, obstacles, and numerous unforgettable experiences. What have I discovered, and what is my current state?
### Conquering the Fear of Friendships
One of the primary obstacles I encountered early on was the quest for friendships. If you’re an incoming student, this may also be a concern for you. During my first day in student housing, the thought of introducing myself was so daunting that I spent the entire day hiding in my room, evading social interactions. Yet today, I can proudly state that I’ve formed some of the closest friendships I’ve ever known. Imperial has truly become a second home, and all it required was stepping outside my comfort zone and initiating conversation with others who were feeling just as I was.
What lesson did I draw from this experience? First and foremost, it’s always beneficial to take a chance at the start of the year. If you’re feeling unprepared, don’t fret—there will be numerous ice-breaking gatherings and chances to connect with others. Most crucially, just be yourself. With such a diverse student population, you’re sure to encounter individuals who resonate with your interests and principles.
### Adapting to Academic Challenges
Another significant challenge was adjusting to the course workload and the heightened complexity of the material. The shift from A-levels to university studies was considerable, and the transition from the first to the second term was even more demanding. I occasionally faced self-doubt, particularly when noticing peers studying effectively while I felt unable to keep pace.
What kept me going? The understanding that everyone is experiencing similar feelings. If you find something confusing, it’s likely that others are as well. The best approach is to seek guidance—whether from classmates or instructors. Cultivating the ability to ask for help is one of the most important skills you can develop during your freshman year.
### The Value of Staff Support
Speaking of guidance, the staff in the Materials department are exceptional. They sincerely care about student success and are always receptive to suggestions. Throughout the year, they maintained open lines of communication with us, assuring that our voices were heard.
Although I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support until later in the academic year, I regret not doing so earlier. One of my best decisions was to take on the role of well-being representative for my cohort. This position enabled me to forge connections with faculty members, which turned out to be immensely beneficial. There are numerous avenues to connect with faculty, and doing so can significantly enrich your university experience. My key takeaway? Take full advantage of the support that’s available—you can never have too much assistance!
### Final Thoughts
Reflecting on this past year, I’ve realized that the apprehension I felt before and during university was often unwarranted. Numerous support systems exist, spanning from staff to fellow students, that can facilitate the transition. Most importantly, I’ve discovered that I’m never truly alone. Despite the unavoidable pressures of exams and deadlines, I’ve learned how to balance diligent work with enjoyment, optimizing my time at Imperial.
If you’re about to embark on your own university adventure, my guidance is straightforward: take the plunge, seek help when necessary, and embrace every opportunity that comes your way. You won’t regret it!