**Thoughts on My Initial Year in Materials Science and Engineering**
*By Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)*
A little over ten months ago, in October 2022, I was consumed by anxiety, uncertainty, and hesitation regarding what was to come. I was about to start 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. As someone who had always been introverted and quiet, embarking on this new journey felt daunting. Now, reflecting on the past year, I recognize a period marked by personal development, challenges, and remarkable experiences. But what insights have I gained, and where do I find myself now?
### Conquering the Fear of Forming Friendships
A key challenge I encountered was establishing friendships. If you’re a future student, this could be a concern for you as well. On my initial day in student housing, I was so daunted that I spent the whole day in my room, too anxious to reach out to others. However, as I reflect today, I can proudly say that I’ve formed some of the most meaningful friendships of my life. Imperial has turned into a second home, and all it required was taking that initial step—initiating small conversations with individuals who were experiencing the same situation.
What did I discover? Taking the plunge early is always beneficial. If you’re not feeling prepared, don’t stress—plenty of icebreaker events and chances to socialize will arise. Above all, be true to yourself. With such a varied student population, you’re sure to encounter others who resonate with your interests and ideals.
### Adapting to Academic Demands
Another significant challenge was adjusting to the workload and the heightened complexity of the material. The transition from A-levels to university was substantial, and moving from the first to the second term felt even more intense. It’s easy to feel daunted or question your capabilities when observing others study with assurance.
What assisted me through this was the reminder that everyone is experiencing similar challenges. If you’re struggling to grasp something, it’s likely that others are too. The most constructive thing you can do is seek assistance—whether from classmates or faculty. Learning to ask for help is one of the most essential skills you can master during your first year.
### The Value of Staff Support
On the topic of support, the personnel in the Materials Science department are exceptional. They are genuinely invested in students’ success and comprehend the challenges we encounter. Throughout the year, they maintained open lines of communication with us and offered guidance whenever necessary.
I didn’t take full advantage of the available pastoral support until later in the year, but I wish I had seized the opportunity sooner. One of the wisest choices I made was becoming a well-being representative for my cohort. This role enabled me to forge connections with staff members, which turned out to be extremely beneficial. There are numerous ways to engage with faculty, and doing so can significantly enrich your university experience. My greatest lesson? Utilize the support at your disposal—you can never have too much assistance!
### Final Thoughts
In retrospect, this year has shown me that the fears and worries I held before starting university were mostly ungrounded. There are extensive support systems available—from staff to fellow students—ensuring that no one ever has to navigate alone. Most importantly, I’ve learned to balance academic responsibilities with enjoyment, making the most of my university experience.
For those about to begin their own university adventure: take the plunge, seek help when necessary, and embrace the journey. You’ll evolve in ways you never anticipated.