**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 engulfed in anxiety, uncertainty, and apprehension about what was to come. I was preparing to embark on 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 has always been introverted and reserved, entering this new phase felt daunting. Reflecting now, I recognize a year brimming with personal development, obstacles, and amazing experiences. But what insights have I gained, and what is my current standing?
### Conquering the Anxiety of Making Connections
One of the most significant obstacles I encountered at the beginning was establishing friendships. If you’re an incoming student, this might be a concern for you as well. On my first day in student housing, I was so apprehensive that I spent the entirety of the day in my room, too anxious to introduce myself to anyone.
Fast forward to now, and I can affirmatively state that I’ve formed some of the most meaningful friendships of my life. I’ve discovered a second family here at Imperial, and all it took was stepping outside my comfort zone and engaging in casual conversations with others who were experiencing similar feelings.
So, what did I glean from this? First, taking that initial risk is always rewarding. Even if you feel unprepared, there will be numerous social events and chances to meet others. Second, the best approach is to simply be yourself. With such a varied student population, you’re sure to connect with individuals who share your interests and values.
### Adapting to the Academic Demands
Another significant obstacle was adjusting to the demands of the workload and the heightened difficulty of university-level material. There was a noticeable increase from A-levels, and an even greater jump from the first to the second term. At times, it was easy to feel overwhelmed and question my capabilities, especially when observing others studying rigorously.
However, I quickly understood that everyone was navigating the same challenges. If I struggled to grasp a concept, the likelihood was that others were having difficulty as well. The most crucial lesson I learned was the importance of seeking help—whether from peers or professors. Asking for assistance is not a sign of weakness; it’s an essential skill that significantly aids in tackling academic hurdles.
### The Value of Support from Faculty
One of the standout features of studying Materials Science at Imperial is the exceptional support provided by the teaching staff. They genuinely wish to see students succeed and are consistently receptive to feedback and discussions regarding any issues we encounter.
Although I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support services until later in the year, I regret not doing so earlier. Initially, I took a leap and became a wellbeing representative for my year, which enabled me to connect with faculty members and gain insights into the resources available. There are countless avenues to engage with staff, and doing so can be incredibly advantageous. My key takeaway? Make the most of the support systems available—you can never have too much assistance!
### Final Thoughts
Reflecting on this past year, I’ve learned that the fears and worries I held before starting university were often unfounded. There are numerous support mechanisms in place, from faculty to fellow students, ensuring that no one has to feel isolated. Most importantly, I’ve discovered how to balance academic demands while enjoying university life.
If you’re about to embark on your own university adventure, my advice is straightforward: take that initial step, be authentic, and don’t hesitate to seek help. You may be amazed at how much you develop along the journey.