**Reflecting on My Initial Year at Imperial College London**
*By Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)*
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, apprehension, and uncertainty regarding what was to come. I was about 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 once considered myself shy and introverted, stepping into this new phase felt daunting. Reflecting now, I recognize a year characterized by personal development, obstacles, and amazing experiences. But what have I discovered, and what is my current standing?
### Conquering the Fear of Forming Friendships
One of the most significant obstacles I faced at the start was establishing friendships. If you are 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 holed up in my room, too anxious to reach out to others. Fast forward to the present, and I can proudly state that I’ve forged some of the finest friendships I’ve ever had. Imperial has become a second home, and all it took was venturing out of my comfort zone and striking up casual conversations with those experiencing the same feelings.
So, what did I discover? Taking that first step is always worthwhile. If you don’t feel prepared immediately, don’t worry—there will be numerous icebreaker events and chances to meet new people. Most importantly, just be yourself. With such a varied student community, you’re sure to encounter individuals who share your interests.
### Adapting to the Academic Demands
Another significant challenge was adjusting to the academic workload and the complexity of the subject matter. The leap from A-levels to university was substantial, and the transition from the first to the second term was even more demanding. It’s easy to feel daunted or question your competencies when surrounded by diligent classmates. However, one of the most crucial lessons I learned was that everyone experiences similar struggles. If you’re having difficulty with a concept, the likelihood is that others are too.
The best strategy to tackle this challenge? Seek assistance. This is arguably the most essential skill to cultivate in your first year. Whether it’s connecting with peers or asking for advice from lecturers, never hesitate to reach out for help.
### The Supportive Faculty and Resources
On the topic of lecturers, the faculty in the Materials department are phenomenal. They genuinely care about students’ success and comprehend the difficulties we encounter. Throughout the academic year, they fostered open communication with us and offered valuable support.
I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral resources until later on in the year, but I wish I had taken advantage of them sooner. One of the best choices I made was becoming a year well-being representative. This position enabled me to engage with faculty members, which proved to be highly advantageous. There are numerous ways to develop relationships with faculty, and doing so can significantly enrich your university experience. My greatest takeaway? Utilize the support at your disposal—you can never have too much assistance!
### Concluding Thoughts
Looking back, this year has taught me that the anxiety I felt before starting university—and even throughout the year—was frequently unwarranted. There are countless support systems available, from staff to fellow students, ensuring that no one has to face challenges alone. Most importantly, I’ve learned how to balance academic demands with enjoying my university experience.
If you’re about to embark on your own journey at Imperial, understand that obstacles will arise, but so will remarkable opportunities for growth. Take the plunge, ask for help when needed, and embrace every opportunity that comes your way.
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**By** [Guest Blogger](https://blogs.imperial.ac.uk/student-blogs/author/bloggers/)
**Categories:** Uncategorised
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