**Thoughts on My Initial Year in Materials Science and Engineering**
*By Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)*
Ten months prior, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, uncertainty, and self-doubt about what awaited me. I was on the verge 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. As a person who has always been timid and introverted, entering this new phase felt daunting. Reflecting now, I realize that this year has been filled with personal development, challenges, and countless unforgettable experiences. But what insights have I gained, and where do I find myself today?
### Conquering the Fear of Friendships
One of the primary obstacles I encountered at the beginning was forming friendships. If you’re an incoming student, this might be one of your primary worries as well. I recall moving into my dorm a few days before the term commenced and spending an entire day cooped up in my room, too scared to go outside and introduce myself.
Fast forward to the present, and I can proudly say that I’ve formed some of the best friendships I’ve ever known. The individuals I’ve connected with here have truly become a second family to me. What made the difference? Simply initiating small conversations with others who were in similar situations.
The main takeaway? Make that early move to connect. If you’re feeling anxious, don’t fret—there will be numerous icebreaker events and chances to meet new people. Above all, just be your authentic self. With such a varied student demographic, you’re sure to find kindred spirits.
### Adapting to Academic Challenges
Another significant challenge was adjusting to the demands of the coursework and the heightened difficulty of the subject matter. The transition from A-levels to university was considerable, and the shift from the first to the second term was even more demanding. It’s easy to feel daunted when you see others studying and start to question your own competence.
What helped me navigate this? Remembering that everyone is facing similar struggles. If you find yourself perplexed by a topic, it’s likely that others are too. The best strategy is to reach out for assistance—be it from classmates or faculty. Learning to ask for help is one of the most crucial skills to hone during your first year.
### The Value of Seeking Assistance
On the subject of assistance, the staff in the Materials department are exceptional. They truly wish for students to thrive and are always receptive to feedback. They recognize the challenges we encounter and maintain open lines of communication with us throughout the year.
I didn’t fully utilize the wellness resources available until later in the year, but I wish I had tapped into them sooner. One of my best choices was to become a year well-being representative. This position enabled me to forge connections with staff members, which proved tremendously advantageous. There are numerous ways to engage with your professors and lecturers, and doing so can significantly enhance your university experience.
The key lesson here? Utilize the resources at your disposal. Whether it’s academic aid or wellness services, you can never have too much support.
### Closing Thoughts
In retrospect, this year has shown me that the apprehensions I held before entering university were largely misplaced. There are abundant support systems available—from both staff and fellow students—that ensure no one must navigate this journey alone. I’ve learned to balance academic demands with enjoying university life, and I’ve developed in ways I never anticipated.
For anyone about to embark on their university adventure: embrace the hurdles, seek help when necessary, and above all, relish the journey.
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**By** [Guest Blogger](https://blogs.imperial.ac.uk/student-blogs/author/bloggers/)
**Categories:** Uncategorised
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