**Insights from My Inaugural Year in Materials Science and Engineering**
*By Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)*
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, uncertainty, and skepticism about the future. I was set to embark on my first 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. Having always been a bit timid and introverted, immersing myself in an entirely new setting felt daunting. Now, reflecting on the preceding academic year, I recognize a path of personal development, challenges, and numerous unforgettable moments. But what insights have I gained, and what is my current standing?
### Conquering the Anxiety of Forming Friendships
One of the most significant obstacles I encountered at the university’s onset was the struggle to form friendships. If you’re a prospective student, this might also be a prevalent concern for you. I vividly recall my first day settling into student housing—I was so daunted that I spent the entire day locked in my room, far too anxious to introduce myself to anyone.
Fast forward to the present, and I can proudly claim to have formed some of the finest friendships of my life. I’ve discovered a second family here at Imperial, beginning with simple chats with others who were experiencing the same situation. The key takeaway? Take the plunge early. Don’t worry if you don’t feel prepared—there will be countless icebreaker events and chances to connect with others. Most importantly, just be genuine. With such a diverse student population, you’re sure to find individuals who resonate with your interests and principles.
### Adapting to the Academic Demands
Another significant challenge was adjusting to the academic demands and the heightened complexity of the material. There was a clear leap from A-levels, and an even more substantial jump from the first term to the second. This transition wasn’t always smooth, and at times, I questioned whether I was keeping pace. Observing others studying effectively can sometimes lead to feelings of inadequacy.
What assisted me in persevering was the understanding that we are all navigating similar challenges. If you’re struggling to grasp a concept, it’s likely that others are too. The most beneficial action you can take is to seek assistance—be it from your peers or your professors. Learning to ask for help is one of the most important skills you can cultivate in your first year.
### The Value of Staff Support
Speaking of assistance, one of the most remarkable aspects was the outstanding support from the staff in the Materials department. They truly care about student success and recognize the difficulties we encounter. Throughout the year, they maintained clear communication with us, ensuring we received the necessary support.
At first, I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support available, but by year’s end, I discovered its immense advantages. One of my best choices was to become a year well-being representative. This role enabled me to connect with faculty members, proving to be an invaluable experience. Many avenues exist to engage with the faculty, and I strongly recommend seizing these opportunities. My most significant takeaway? Never hesitate to leverage the resources and support systems available—you can never have too much assistance!
### Final Thoughts
Reflecting back, this year has shown me that the apprehension I felt before and during university was often unfounded. Numerous support systems are in place, ranging from faculty to fellow students, ensuring no one has to feel isolated. More importantly, I’ve learned how to balance academic responsibilities while savoring university life.
If you’re about to embark on your university journey, my advice is straightforward: take the plunge, seek help when necessary, and embrace every opportunity that arises. You’ll evolve in ways you never imagined, and before long, you’ll find yourself looking back on a year brimming with incredible experiences.