**Thoughts on My Initial 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 self-doubt about what was to come. I was on the verge of commencing 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), and venturing into the unknown felt daunting. As someone who had always been timid and introverted, engaging in this new chapter was intimidating. Now, reflecting on the year, I recognize it as a period filled with personal development, obstacles, and numerous unforgettable experiences. But what insights have I gathered, and what is my current standing?
### Conquering the Anxiety of Making Connections
One of the greatest obstacles I encountered at the outset was forging friendships. If you’re an incoming student, this may be a concern for you as well. On my first day in student housing, I felt so intimidated that I spent the entire day hidden away in my room, too anxious to present myself to others. However, fast forward to now, and I’m proud to say that I’ve formed some of the closest friendships I’ve ever had.
Imperial has truly felt like a second home for me, and it all began with brief exchanges with others who were experiencing similar feelings. My key takeaway? Embrace that leap at the start of the year. If you feel uncertain, don’t fret—numerous ice-breakers and activities are designed to assist you in meeting new individuals. Most importantly, remain true to yourself. With such a wide-ranging student community, you’re sure to find those who resonate with your interests and beliefs.
### Adapting to Academic Demands
Another significant challenge was adjusting to the academic workload and the elevated difficulty of the material. The shift from A-levels to university was stark, and the transition from the first to the second term was even more rigorous. It’s normal to feel inundated or question your capabilities when observing others studying and appearing more self-assured.
A helpful reminder for me was that everyone is navigating the same waters. If you’re grappling with a concept, it’s likely that others are too. The most effective step you can take is to seek assistance—whether it’s from classmates or faculty members. Learning to ask for help is one of the most crucial skills to cultivate in your first year.
### The Value of Staff Support
Speaking of assistance, the teaching staff within the Materials department are exceptional. They sincerely want students to thrive and are aware of the hurdles we encounter. Throughout the year, they kept lines of communication open and offered guidance whenever necessary.
Although I didn’t fully utilize pastoral support until later in the year, I regret not doing so sooner. One of the proactive steps I took early on was serving as a year well-being representative. This role enabled me to develop connections with faculty members, which turned out to be greatly advantageous. There are plenty of opportunities to engage with faculty, and doing so can significantly enrich your university experience. My recommendation? Take advantage of all available support—you can never have too much assistance!
### Final Thoughts
Reflecting on the past year, I’ve realized that the anxiety and concerns I harbored prior to starting university were mostly unfounded. There are ample support systems available, from faculty to fellow students, ensuring that no one feels isolated. Most importantly, I’ve discovered how to balance academic expectations with enjoying the university experience.
To anyone about to embark on their journey at Imperial, my straightforward advice is: take risks, seek help, and fully embrace the adventure. You’ll experience growth in unexpected ways, and before long, you’ll look back at your first year with a sense of accomplishment.