**Reflections on My First Year in Materials Science and Engineering**
*By Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)*
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I was filled with apprehension, uncertainty, and self-doubt about what was to come. As a first-year student about to start my adventure 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), I struggled with stepping outside of my comfort zone. Looking back now, I reflect on a year characterized by personal development, challenges, and many unforgettable moments. But what insights have I gained, and where am I now?
### Conquering the Anxiety of Making Friends
One of the most significant hurdles I encountered was meeting new people. If you’re an incoming student, this might be one of your primary anxieties as well. On my first day in student housing, I felt so intimidated that I spent the whole day in my room, too apprehensive to introduce myself to anyone.
Fast forward to the present, and I can proudly say that I’ve formed some of the best friendships I’ve ever had. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, and all it took was engaging in a bit of small talk with fellow students who were in the same boat.
So, what did I learn from this experience? Taking that initial step is always beneficial. Even if you feel unprepared, there will be numerous opportunities and events to help you engage with others. Most importantly, just be yourself—Imperial is an incredibly diverse community, and you’re sure to find people with shared interests.
### Adapting to the Academic Demands
Another significant challenge was getting used to the level of workload and complexity of the material. There was a clear escalation from A-levels, and an even larger increase from the first term to the second. At times, it was easy to feel inundated, especially when witnessing others studying and questioning if I was doing enough.
What greatly assisted me through this was the awareness that everyone was experiencing similar struggles. If I was confused about something, it’s likely that others were too. The most important lesson I learned in my first year was to seek assistance—whether from classmates or faculty.
### The Value of Support from Faculty
Speaking of faculty, the Materials Science department at Imperial is exceptionally supportive. The instructors truly want their students to thrive and are always receptive to feedback. They recognize the obstacles we encounter and foster open communication throughout the academic year.
Although I didn’t fully take advantage of pastoral support until later in the year, I wish I had done so earlier. One of the smartest choices I made was becoming a well-being representative for my year. This position enabled me to establish connections with staff, which turned out to be incredibly valuable. There are various avenues to engage with lecturers and support personnel, and doing so can significantly enhance your university experience. My key takeaway? Make use of the available assistance—you can never have too much support!
### Concluding Thoughts
This year has shown me that the apprehension I felt before and during university was often unfounded. There are numerous support systems available, from staff to peers, ensuring that no one has to navigate this experience alone. More importantly, I’ve learned how to manage stress—whether it stems from exams or deadlines—while still enjoying my university time.
Looking ahead, I feel significantly more assured and optimistic about what lies ahead. To any incoming students, my advice is straightforward: take the plunge, seek help, and embrace the journey.
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**By** [Guest Blogger](https://blogs.imperial.ac.uk/student-blogs/author/bloggers/)
**Categories:** Uncategorised
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