**Reflections 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 nerves, uncertainty, and questions about what the future held. I was on the brink of starting 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. Being someone who had always been somewhat introverted, entering this new phase felt daunting. Reflecting on this past year, I recognize it as a time of personal development, challenges, and amazing experiences. So, what have I discovered, and how do I feel now?
### Conquering the Anxiety of Making Connections
A significant challenge I encountered early on was befriending others. If you’re an incoming student, this might be a concern for you as well. I recall my first day in student housing, where I stayed in my room, too apprehensive to venture out and meet new people. However, as the weeks went by, I began to forge meaningful friendships with classmates and others across the university.
The essential lesson? Taking that first step is always rewarding. Even if you feel unprepared, numerous icebreaker events and chances to meet others will arise. Most importantly, just be yourself—Imperial has a diverse community, and you’re sure to find those who resonate with your interests and values.
### Coping with Academic Demands
Another significant obstacle was adjusting to the demands of higher education and the heightened difficulty of university studies. The leap from A-levels was considerable, and the transition from the first to the second term proved to be even more challenging. It’s easy to feel swamped or question your capabilities when in the presence of diligent peers.
What got me through this was understanding that everyone is experiencing similar difficulties. If you find a topic confusing, it’s likely that your classmates are too. The best course of action is to seek help—whether from peers or instructors. Developing the habit of asking for support early on is one of the most invaluable skills you can cultivate in your introductory year.
### The Value of Faculty Support
One of the most comforting elements of my program has been the outstanding assistance from the teaching staff. They truly care about students’ success and recognize the challenges we encounter. Throughout the year, they kept lines of communication open and offered diverse support options.
I didn’t fully take advantage of the pastoral support resources until later in the year, but I regret not doing so earlier. Serving as a year well-being representative allowed me to connect with the staff, which proved to be incredibly beneficial. There are numerous avenues to engage with faculty members, and doing so can significantly enrich your university experience. My main takeaway? Make the most of the resources available—you can never have too much support.
### Final Thoughts
Reflecting on the year, I’ve realized that the anxieties and fears I held prior to starting university were mostly unfounded. Numerous support systems exist, ranging from faculty to fellow students, ensuring that no one has to face challenges in isolation. Most importantly, I’ve learned to balance academic demands with enjoying my university life.
If you’re about to embark on your first year, remember that while the transition may appear intimidating, it also presents a fantastic chance for growth. Embrace the obstacles, seek assistance when necessary, and take full advantage of everything that Imperial offers!