**Reflections on My Initial Year in Materials Science and Engineering**
*By Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)*
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I found myself engulfed in nerves, uncertainty, and doubt regarding what was to come. I was on the brink 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) as a freshman, and venturing outside my comfort zone was unfamiliar territory for me. Reflecting on the past year, I recognize it as a time of personal growth, overcoming challenges, and having a lot of fun. But what insights have I gathered from this journey, and what is my current stance?
### Conquering the Anxiety of Making Friends
One of the most intimidating parts of entering university was the prospect of making friends. If you’re an incoming student reading this, you might resonate with those feelings. On the inaugural day at my student accommodation, I was so daunted that I ended up spending the whole day in my room, too anxious to meet anyone. However, as I reflect now, I can assert that I’ve forged some of the most meaningful friendships I’ve had. Imperial has truly become a second home, and all it took was a little casual conversation with individuals who shared my situation.
The most crucial lesson I learned? Take the plunge early on. Even if you don’t feel entirely at ease at the start, there will be numerous ice-breakers and social gatherings designed to help you forge connections. Above all, be your authentic self. With such a diverse student community, you’re sure to encounter those who resonate with your interests and values.
### Adapting to Academic Demands
Another significant obstacle was acclimatizing to the workload and the heightened difficulty of the curriculum. The leap from A-levels to university was quite pronounced, and the transition from the first to the second term felt even more demanding. It was easy to become overwhelmed, particularly when I compared myself to classmates who seemed to grasp concepts at a swifter pace.
What aided me in navigating this challenge? Reminding myself that everyone else was experiencing similar struggles. If I had difficulty with a subject, it was likely that others did as well. The best strategy was seeking assistance—whether from classmates or professors. Learning to ask for help is one of the most crucial skills you can cultivate during your first year.
### The Value of Faculty Support
A standout feature of my experience has been the remarkable support from the Materials Science department. The faculty genuinely desire for students to thrive and are consistently ready to assist. They comprehend the hurdles we encounter and maintain transparent communication throughout the year to tackle any issues.
Although I didn’t fully leverage pastoral support until later in the year, I regret not utilizing it sooner. Taking on the role of a well-being representative was a wise choice—it allowed me to connect with faculty members, which turned out to be immensely helpful. There are numerous opportunities to engage with the instructors, and doing so can significantly enhance your university experience. My paramount insight? Utilize the support available to you—there’s no such thing as too much assistance!
### Concluding Thoughts
Reflecting on my first year, I have discovered that many of the anxieties I had prior to starting university were unfounded. A vast array of support exists from both faculty and peers, and I’ve come to understand that I am never truly alone. Most importantly, I’ve grasped how to juggle academic demands while enjoying the overall university experience.
If you’re on the verge of embarking on your journey at Imperial, my recommendation is straightforward: take the leap, request help when necessary, and embrace the experience fully. You’ll evolve in ways you never anticipated, and soon enough, you’ll find yourself looking back at a remarkable year filled with learning and self-discovery.