**Insights from My Initial Year in Materials Science and Engineering**
*By Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)*
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I was filled with a mix of anxiety, doubt, and thrill as I geared up to embark on my journey as a first-year student 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 has always been rather introverted, plunging into this new experience felt like quite a lot to handle. Now, reflecting on the past academic year, I can appreciate how much I’ve matured—tackling obstacles, gathering essential insights, and creating lasting memories.
### Conquering the Anxiety of Making Connections
One of my biggest worries before stepping into university life was the prospect of making new friends. If you’re a future student, you might share this concern. On my first day at student housing, I felt so daunted that I spent the whole day in my room, too apprehensive to say hello to anyone.
Fast forward to now, and I can proudly affirm that I’ve formed some of the finest friendships of my life. The secret was just taking that initial leap—striking up casual conversations with others in similar situations. If there’s one thing I’ve discovered, it’s that being proactive about connecting with others early on pays off. Even if you don’t feel prepared, don’t fret—there will be ample icebreaker events and chances to socialize. Most importantly, remain authentic. With such a varied student population, you’re sure to encounter individuals who resonate with your interests and principles.
### Navigating the Academic Demands
Another significant challenge was adjusting to the intense workload and the heightened difficulty associated with university-level studies. The transition from A-levels was striking, and the shift from the first term to the second was even more demanding. It’s natural to feel overwhelmed or doubt your capabilities when observing others studying and seemingly grasping concepts effortlessly.
Nonetheless, a vital lesson I absorbed was that everyone is experiencing similar struggles. If a concept eludes you, it’s likely that others are grappling with it as well. The most constructive step you can take is to reach out for assistance—whether it’s from your classmates or your professors. Seeking help is not indicative of weakness; rather, it’s a fundamental aspect of learning and progressing academically.
### The Value of Faculty Support
One of the most comforting elements of my first year was the unparalleled support from the Materials Science department. The faculty genuinely prioritize students’ well-being and academic achievement. They recognize the obstacles we encounter and proactively engage with us to alleviate any issues.
While I didn’t fully take advantage of the supportive services until later in the year, I wish I had done so at the beginning. Early on, I took a chance and became a well-being representative for my group. This position enabled me to forge connections with staff members, which proved to be invaluable. There are numerous ways to connect with faculty, and doing so can greatly enhance your university experience. My principal takeaway? Take full advantage of the support offered to you—you can never have too much assistance!
### Concluding Thoughts
Reflecting on this year, I’ve learned that many of the anxieties I harbored before starting university were unfounded. There are numerous support systems available, from faculty to fellow students, to help you navigate various challenges. Most crucially, I’ve realized that I’m never genuinely alone. In spite of the stresses from exams and deadlines, I’ve discovered ways to relish my university experience and seize every opportunity that comes my way.
For those about to embark on their university adventure, my counsel is straightforward: take that plunge, seek help when necessary, and savor every moment. You’ll grow in ways you never anticipated.
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*By [Guest Blogger](https://blogs.imperial.ac.uk/student-blogs/author/bloggers/)*
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