**Reflecting 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 regarding 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 somewhat introverted, entering this new phase felt daunting. Reflecting on the past year, I recognize it has been a time of personal development, challenges, and a wealth of unforgettable moments. But what insights have I gained, and what is my current position?
### Conquering the Fear of Building Friendships
One of the most intimidating elements of starting university was the prospect of making new friends. If you’re a future student, this might be a concern for you as well. On my first day of moving into my accommodation—just days prior to the official start of the term—I spent an entire day in my room, too apprehensive to venture out and introduce myself.
Fast forward to today, and I’m pleased to say I’ve formed some of the closest friendships I’ve ever had. I’ve discovered a second family here at Imperial, and it all began with stepping beyond my comfort zone and engaging in small conversations with others in similar situations.
What did I discover? Taking that initial step at the year’s beginning is undeniably worthwhile. If you don’t feel ready or at ease right off the bat, don’t be concerned—there will be countless ice-breaking activities and opportunities to connect. Most importantly, just be yourself. With such a varied student population, you’re sure to find individuals who resonate with your interests and values.
### Adapting to the Academic Demands
Another significant challenge was adjusting to the intensity of the workload and the more complex subject matter. The leap from A-levels to university was considerable, and the shift between the first and second terms felt even more daunting. At times, witnessing others study so proficiently caused me to question my own capabilities.
What assisted me in persevering was the understanding that everyone was facing similar struggles. If I was unclear about something, it’s likely others were experiencing the same issue. The key lesson I learned was to seek assistance—whether from classmates or professors. Seeking help is one of the most crucial abilities you can cultivate in your first year.
### The Significance of Staff Support
A notable aspect of my journey has been the outstanding support from the Materials Science department. The staff genuinely care about our success and are aware of the hurdles we confront. They facilitate open lines of communication with students throughout the year, making sure our concerns are acknowledged.
I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support available until later in the year, but I wish I had taken advantage of it earlier. At the beginning of the year, I took a brave step by becoming a year well-being representative. This position enabled me to connect with staff, which proved to be immensely beneficial. There are numerous ways to engage with faculty, and doing this can significantly enrich your university experience. My main takeaway? Take full advantage of the support at your disposal—you can never receive too much assistance!
### Final Thoughts
Reflecting on my first year, I’ve realized that the anxiety I experienced—both before and during university—was frequently unwarranted. An abundance of support systems exists, from staff to fellow students, to help you tackle challenges. Most importantly, I’ve learned that I am never alone. I’ve also figured out how to balance academic stress with enjoyment, even during high-pressure times like exams and deadlines.
For anyone about to embark on their university adventure: embrace the challenges, seek help when necessary, and don’t hesitate to take that first step. You’ll evolve in ways you never anticipated, and you might just discover a second family along the way.