**Reflecting on My Initial Year in Materials Science and Engineering**
*Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)*
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, fear, and uncertainty regarding the upcoming journey. I was on the brink of starting my adventure as a first-year scholar 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 typically been introverted and quiet, venturing into the unknown felt intimidating. Now, reflecting on the last academic year, I regard it as a time of significant personal development, faced challenges, and plenty of enjoyable moments. So, what did I take away from this experience, and where do I currently stand?
### Conquering the Anxiety of Forming Friendships
A major source of anxiety for me was the process of making friends. For many, this can be one of the most daunting aspects of starting university, and if you’re a future student reading this, it’s understandable if you share that concern. On my first day moving into my accommodation, I spent the entirety of the day tucked away in my room, too apprehensive to venture out and meet new people. Fast forward to now, and I can proudly say I’ve developed some of the best friendships of my life. Here at Imperial, I’ve discovered a second family, initiated by simple conversations with others in similar situations.
So, what did I discover? I realized that taking that first step at the beginning of the year is always worthwhile. Even if you don’t feel prepared or at ease, don’t fret! There will be numerous ice-breakers and events created to facilitate connections with others. Most importantly, I learned that being your authentic self is paramount. With such a diverse mix of individuals across the program and university, you’re sure to find those who resonate with your interests and values.
### Adjusting to the Academic Demands
Another major challenge was getting accustomed to the academic workload and the intricate nature of the material. There was a visible escalation from A-levels, and an even more substantial rise from the first term to the second. Being immersed in such an environment can challenge your confidence, especially when you observe others studying and feel like you’re falling behind. However, here’s the truth: everyone is navigating similar waters. If you’re struggling to grasp a topic, it’s likely that others are too. Therefore, don’t shy away from seeking help. This may be the most crucial lesson to absorb in your first year—reach out to classmates and faculty when you require assistance.
### The Value of Faculty Support
On the topic of faculty, the professors in the Materials department are remarkable. They genuinely care about your success and are aware of the difficulties students encounter. Throughout the year, they kept us informed and engaged regarding the issues we faced. I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support until the year was winding down, but I wish I had done it sooner.
At the year’s start, I took the initiative and became a well-being representative for my cohort. This position permitted me to connect more with the staff, which proved invaluable. There are various ways to foster relationships with faculty, and doing so could be one of the best decisions for your personal growth. My key takeaway from this experience is to fully embrace the assistance and support available to you. There’s no such thing as too much help!
### Concluding Remarks
In conclusion, this past year has shown me that the apprehension I felt leading up to and during my time at university was mostly unfounded. With a broad spectrum of support resources from both faculty and fellow students, help is always available when you need it. I’ve realized that I’m never isolated, and I’ve learned how to enjoy my time while managing the inevitable pressures of exams and deadlines.
By [Guest Blogger](https://blogs.imperial.ac.uk/student-blogs/author/bloggers/)
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