**Musings on My Inaugural 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 skepticism regarding what awaited me. I was on the brink of commencing my first year 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 As someone who had consistently been introverted and withdrawn, immersing myself in an entirely new setting felt intimidating. Reflecting back now, I recognize a year brimming with personal growth, challenges, and remarkable experiences. But what insights have I gained, and where do I find myself now?
### Conquering the Anxiety of Forming Friendships
One of the most significant obstacles I encountered was the task of forging new friendships. If you’re a future student, this could be a concern for you as well. On my initial day in student housing, my nerves got the best of me, leading me to spend the entire day holed up in my room, too anxious to introduce myself to others. However, fast forward to today, and I can proudly state that I’ve formed some of the closest friendships of my life.
The essential takeaway? Make that initial move. Even if you feel a bit out of place upfront, there will be numerous icebreaker activities and chances to connect with others. Above all, be authentic. With such a varied student population, you are sure to encounter individuals who resonate with your interests and values.
### Adapting to the Academic Demands
The shift from A-levels to university-level study presented another significant challenge. The workload surged noticeably, and the difficulty escalated even more between the first and second terms. At times, I questioned my capabilities, especially when witnessing others studying rigorously.
What aided me during this period? A reminder that I wasn’t facing it alone. If I struggled with a particular subject, it’s likely that others were too. The best lesson I acquired was the importance of seeking assistance—whether from classmates or instructors. Asking for help is not indicative of weakness; it’s a vital skill that significantly eases the university experience.
### The Value of Support from Faculty
A crucial aspect of my journey has been the extraordinary support from the Materials Science department. The faculty genuinely prioritize students’ well-being and academic achievements. They recognize the hurdles we encounter and ensure ongoing communication throughout the year.
Although I didn’t fully leverage pastoral support until later in the year, I wish I had embraced it earlier. At the start, I took the initiative to become a well-being representative for my year, allowing me to cultivate connections with faculty members. Establishing rapport with your lecturers and tutors can be immensely fruitful, and I strongly advocate for making the most of the resources at your disposal.
### Concluding Thoughts
In hindsight, this year has revealed to me that many of my initial apprehensions were baseless. The encouragement from both faculty and fellow students profoundly impacted my experience. I’ve realized that I’m never genuinely alone and that achieving a balance between academic demands and a fulfilling university experience is indeed possible.
To anyone on the verge of starting their own university adventure—embrace the difficulties, seek assistance when necessary, and above all, relish the journey.