**Thoughts 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 overwhelmed with nerves, uncertainty, and excitement as I began my adventure as a first-year student 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 As someone who formerly felt shy and withdrawn, entering this new phase was quite intimidating. Now, reflecting back, I see a year brimming with personal development, challenges, and unforgettable moments. But what insights have I gained, and where do I find myself today?
### Conquering the Anxiety of Making Connections
A significant challenge I encountered at the beginning of university was forging friendships. If you’re an incoming student, this might be on your mind too. On my inaugural day in student housing, I felt so daunted that I chose to remain in my room the whole day, too anxious to meet anyone.
Fast forward to now, and I can proudly say that I’ve formed some of the most meaningful friendships I’ve ever known. I’ve created a second family here at Imperial, and it all began with stepping beyond my comfort zone and initiating brief conversations with others in similar situations.
So, what did I take away from this? Taking the initial leap is always worth it. If you don’t feel ready at first, don’t stress—numerous icebreaker activities and opportunities to connect await you. Most importantly, just be authentic. With such a diverse student community, you’re guaranteed to encounter individuals who resonate with your interests and values.
### Adapting to Academic Demands
Another major challenge was adjusting to the workload and the heightened complexity of university-level material. The transition from A-levels to university was substantial, and the shift from first to second term was even more rigorous. It’s easy to feel inundated or question your capabilities when observing others studying fervently.
What aided me through this was the understanding that everyone faces similar challenges. If you’re struggling, it’s likely that others are too. The best course of action is to seek assistance—whether from classmates or professors. Developing the skill to ask for help is one of the most crucial lessons you can learn in your first year.
### The Value of Staff Support
One of the standout features of my time has been the remarkable support from the Materials Science and Engineering faculty. They truly want to see students thrive and are always receptive to feedback. Throughout the year, they maintained steady communication with us and offered guidance whenever we needed it.
While I didn’t take full advantage of the pastoral support services until later in the year, I wish I had engaged with them sooner. Serving as a well-being representative provided me with the chance to connect with faculty members, which turned out to be immensely beneficial. There are numerous ways to interact with the faculty, and doing so can significantly enrich your university experience. My key lesson? Make optimal use of the support available to you—you can never have too much assistance!
### Concluding Thoughts
Looking back, this year has taught me that the anxieties I carried before commencing university were mostly unfounded. There is plentiful support from both staff and fellow students to help navigate any obstacles. Most importantly, I’ve discovered that I’m never alone on this path. Despite the strains of exams and deadlines, I’ve managed to find enjoyment in my university life, and I wouldn’t trade this experience for anything.
If you’re about to begin your own university adventure, embrace the hurdles, take that first step, and remember—you’re not alone.