**Reflecting on My Initial Year in Materials Science and Engineering**
*By Dawson La, MEng in Materials Science and Engineering*
Ten months back, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, uncertainty, and skepticism about what awaited me. I was on the brink of starting 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. Being naturally shy and introverted, immersing myself in a completely unfamiliar setting felt daunting. Reflecting on the past year, I see it as a period rich with personal development, challenges, and many memorable experiences. But what insights have I gained, and where do I currently stand?
### Conquering the Fear of Forming Friendships
A significant challenge I encountered early on was the quest to make friends. If you’re a future student, this may resonate with your concerns. On my initial day in student housing, just before classes commenced, I spent the entire day inside my room, too apprehensive to venture out and meet others. However, looking at my journey today, I can proudly say that I’ve cultivated some of the most meaningful friendships of my life. Imperial has truly turned into a second home, and it all began with me stepping beyond my comfort zone and striking up conversations with others who were equally apprehensive.
So, what’s my takeaway? That first step is always worthwhile. If you don’t feel prepared immediately, don’t stress—there are numerous ice-breaking events and social gatherings designed to help you connect with fellow students. Above all, remember to be yourself. With such a diverse student community, you’re sure to find individuals who resonate with your interests and principles.
### Adapting to Academic Demands
Another considerable challenge was adjusting to the rigorous workload and the heightened complexity of the course content. The shift from A-levels to university was a significant leap, and the transition from the first to second term was even more pronounced. It’s easy to feel inundated and question your capabilities, especially when observing others study with apparent ease and assurance.
What aided me was the understanding that we are all navigating similar situations. If you’re having difficulty with a concept, it’s likely that others are too. The best course of action is to seek assistance—whether from your classmates or instructors. Asking for help is not an indication of weakness; it’s a crucial skill that is vital for your success.
### The Value of Seeking Help
This leads me to another vital lesson: the remarkable support network within the Materials Science department. The faculty truly wish for students to excel and recognize the difficulties we encounter. They foster open lines of communication all year round and are consistently ready to assist.
I didn’t take full advantage of the available pastoral support until later in the year, but I regret not doing so sooner. At the year’s outset, I took the initiative to become a well-being representative for my cohort. This position allowed me to establish important connections with staff, which proved incredibly beneficial. There are myriad ways to engage with faculty, and doing so can significantly enrich your university journey. My recommendation? Utilize the support systems at your disposal—you can never have too much assistance!
### Concluding Thoughts
As I reflect on the past year, I realize that the anxiety I felt prior to starting university was unwarranted. There are numerous support systems available, from staff to fellow students, ensuring no one has to navigate this journey in isolation. Most importantly, I’ve discovered how to balance academic challenges with enjoying student life.
If you’re on the cusp of beginning your adventure at Imperial, my advice is straightforward: embrace the challenges, seek assistance whenever necessary, and be open to personal growth. University is a period of transformation, and while it may seem intimidating at first, it is an experience that will mold you in ways you never anticipated.