**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 doubt about what was to come. I was on the brink of embarking on my first year of 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 a person who has always been shy and introverted, entering this new phase felt daunting. In retrospect, my first year has been a path of self-discovery, obstacles, and countless unforgettable moments. But what insights have I gained, and what is my current position?
### Conquering the Fear of Building Friendships
One of the major obstacles I encountered was the challenge of making friends. If you’re an incoming student, this is likely a concern for you as well. On my initial day in student housing, I found myself spending hours in my room, too daunted to step outside and introduce myself. Yet now, as I reflect on my journey, I can proudly say that I’ve established some of the best friendships I’ve ever had. Imperial has truly become a second home, and it all began with a bit of casual conversation with others who felt just like I did.
So, what’s the takeaway? Taking that first step is invariably worthwhile. Even if you feel unprepared, there will be ample icebreaker occasions and chances to meet new individuals. Above all, simply be yourself—Imperial is filled with a rich mix of people, and you will definitely encounter like-minded peers.
### Adapting to Academic Demands
Another major challenge was adjusting to the workload and the heightened complexity of the subject matter. The shift from A-levels was quite stark, and the escalation from the first to the second term was even more pronounced. It’s natural to feel swamped when witnessing others immersed in their studies and starting to doubt your own skills.
What proved to be most beneficial for me was keeping in mind that everyone else was navigating the same challenges. If I struggled with a concept, it was likely that my peers were too. The best lesson I learned was the importance of seeking assistance—whether from fellow students or instructors. Finding help is among the most crucial abilities to cultivate during your first year.
### Valuing Support from Faculty
A noteworthy highlight of my experience has been the amazing support provided by the Materials Science department. The staff genuinely care about student success and are aware of the hurdles we face. They actively engage with our concerns and maintain open lines of communication throughout the academic year.
Although I only began to fully engage with the support services later in the year, I regret not taking advantage of them sooner. Early on, I took a bold step and became a well-being representative for my year. This allowed me to forge connections 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 most important lesson? Utilize the support available—you can never have too much assistance!
### Concluding Thoughts
Reflecting on this year, I realize that the apprehension I felt prior to starting university was unwarranted. Many support systems exist, from staff to fellow students, ensuring that no one needs to navigate this experience alone. I’ve discovered how to manage stress while still having fun, even amid exam periods.
If you’re on the brink of starting your university adventure, my guidance is straightforward: take that plunge, seek help when necessary, and fully engage in the experience. You’ll evolve in ways you never anticipated, and you may even find a second family along the way.