### Thoughts on My Initial Year in Materials Science and Engineering
*Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)*
Ten months prior, in October 2022, I was consumed by nerves, uncertainty, and doubt regarding what awaited me. I was set to embark on 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 always been introverted and reserved, diving into this new experience felt overwhelming. Reflecting on it now, I recognize a year full of personal development, challenges, and an abundance of unforgettable moments. But what insights have I gained, and where do I find myself today?
### Conquering the Anxiety of Making Friends
One of the most significant hurdles I encountered was forming friendships. If you’re a prospective student, this might be a concern for you as well. I remember my first day in student housing, hiding in my room, feeling too apprehensive to venture out and meet others. Nevertheless, as the year unfolded, I forged some of the most resilient friendships imaginable.
What did I come to understand? Taking that first step is invariably rewarding. Even if you feel unprepared, there will be numerous icebreaker opportunities and chances to connect with others. Most crucially, I discovered that being authentic is the best path forward. With such a varied student demographic, you are sure to encounter people who resonate with your interests and values.
### Adapting to the Academic Demands
Shifting from A-levels to university-level study was another challenge. The academic load was substantially more intense, and the difficulty escalated even further during the second term. At moments, I questioned my capabilities, particularly when I noticed others engaging in intensive study sessions. Still, I quickly understood that I was not alone—many of my classmates were grappling with similar difficulties.
The most important lesson I acquired was the value of seeking assistance. Whether from peers or professors, reaching out for help is vital. If something is unclear to you, it’s likely that others are facing similar challenges. University is inherently collaborative, and asking for help can significantly alter your experience.
### The Value of Connecting with Faculty
One of the standout elements of studying Materials Science at Imperial is the encouraging faculty. They genuinely wish for students to thrive and are consistently receptive to feedback. Although I did not fully engage with pastoral support until later in the academic year, I wish I had taken advantage of it sooner.
At the beginning of the year, I made the bold choice to become a well-being representative for my program. This position enabled me to cultivate connections with staff, which turned out to be enormously beneficial. There are numerous avenues to connect with faculty, and doing so can greatly enrich your university experience. My key takeaway? Utilize the support at your disposal—you can never have too much aid!
### Final Thoughts
Reflecting on my inaugural year, I’ve realized that the fears and apprehensions I harbored before starting university were largely exaggerated. There is a wealth of support available from both faculty and fellow students, ensuring no one must confront challenges in isolation. Most importantly, I’ve learned how to navigate academic demands while still savoring university life.
If you’re on the brink of starting your own university journey, my message is straightforward: take the plunge, seek help when necessary, and fully embrace the adventure. You will evolve in ways you never anticipated!