### Reflections on My Initial Year in Materials Science and Engineering
*By Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)*
A decade ago, during October 2022, I was engulfed in nerves, uncertainty, and skepticism about what the future held. I was on the verge of commencing 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 university, and stepping into this new chapter was overwhelming for someone who was inherently shy. Reflecting on the past year, it’s clear that it has been a journey of personal development, challenges faced, and numerous unforgettable moments. But what insights have I gained, and where am I now?
#### Conquering the Anxiety of Forming Connections
One of the primary obstacles I encountered in the beginning was establishing friendships. If you’re an incoming student, this might resonate as one of your foremost worries as well. I vividly recall my first day moving into my accommodation—I was so daunted by the thought of approaching new people that I spent the entire day confined to my room. However, fast forward to now, and I can proudly state that I’ve formed some of the finest friendships I’ve ever had.
What was the crucial lesson learned? Take that initial leap. Even when you’re feeling anxious or uncertain, there are ample opportunities to connect with others through ice-breakers and social gatherings. Above all, remain true to yourself. With such a varied student population, you’re sure to encounter individuals who align with your interests and principles.
#### Adapting to the Academic Demands
The shift from A-level studies to the rigor of university coursework presented another significant challenge. The workload surged considerably, and the transition from the first to the second term was even more pronounced. There were moments I doubted my abilities, especially when witnessing others engage in intense study sessions.
What aided me in navigating this? The realization that everyone faces similar challenges. If you’re grappling with a topic, it’s likely that others are as well. The wisest course of action is to seek assistance—whether it be from your classmates or faculty members. Cultivating the ability to request support is one of the most valuable skills to acquire during your inaugural year.
#### The Value of Seeking Assistance
On the subject of support, one of the most comforting elements of my course has been the outstanding staff. They truly aspire for their students to succeed and are consistently receptive to feedback and discussions regarding any struggles we encounter. While I didn’t fully engage with the pastoral support until later in the academic year, I regret not doing so sooner.
At the year’s outset, I took a bold step by serving as a well-being representative for my cohort. This position enabled me to forge connections with faculty, which turned out to be immensely advantageous. There are numerous avenues to engage with faculty members, and doing so can significantly impact your academic experience. My primary takeaway? Make the most of the support available—you can never have excessive assistance.
#### Concluding Thoughts
Reflecting on the past year, I’ve come to understand that the apprehension I felt prior to starting university was largely misplaced. There exists a multitude of support systems, ranging from staff to fellow students, designed to aid you in navigating the challenges ahead. Most importantly, I’ve realized that I’m never truly alone and that balancing academic demands with a delightful and rewarding university experience is entirely achievable.
If you’re on the verge of embarking on your university adventure, my guidance is straightforward: embrace the challenges, seek support when necessary, and above all, stay authentic. You can do this!