**Thoughts on My Initial Year in Materials Science and Engineering**
*By Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)*
Nearly ten months ago, in October 2022, I entered this new chapter filled with a mix of anxiety, uncertainty, and excitement as I embarked 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). The thought of stepping into the unknown was intimidating, particularly for someone who has always leaned towards being more introverted. Reflecting back, I perceive a fascinating year marked by personal development, challenges, and unforgettable moments. So, what insights have I gained, and where does that leave me now?
### Conquering the Fear of Forming Friendships
One major obstacle I encountered in the beginning was the challenge of forming friendships. If you’re considering becoming a student, this might be a significant concern for you as well. On my initial day in student housing, I was so overwhelmed by the thought of meeting new individuals that I spent the entire day isolated in my room, steering clear of any social interactions.
Fast forward to today, and I can proudly state that I’ve forged some of the most meaningful friendships of my life. The people I’ve met at Imperial have truly become like a second family to me. All it required was for me to step out of my comfort zone and engage in some casual conversation with others who were equally as nervous.
The main takeaway? Take that risk at the beginning of the year. If you’re feeling anxious, rest assured—there will be numerous icebreaker activities and opportunities to connect with others. Above all, just be yourself. With such a varied student body, you are sure to find individuals who share your interests.
### Adapting to Academic Demands
Another major challenge was adjusting to the increased workload and complexity of the material. The transition from A-levels to university was apparent, and moving from the first to the second term was even more significant. It’s natural to feel overwhelmed or question your capabilities, especially when observing peers who seem to grasp concepts with ease.
What proved most beneficial to me was understanding that I wasn’t the only one facing challenges. If I struggled with a subject, it was likely that others were too. The best strategy in your first year is to seek assistance—whether it’s from classmates or professors.
### The Value of Seeking Assistance
Conversely, speaking of professors, the faculty in the Materials department are remarkably supportive. They earnestly wish for students to succeed and are always ready to engage in conversations about any difficulties we encounter. Throughout the year, they kept in regular contact with us, ensuring that we felt acknowledged and supported.
I didn’t fully tap into the supportive resources available until the latter part of the year, but in hindsight, I wish I had done so earlier. One of the wisest decisions I made was to serve as a well-being representative for my year. This role granted me the chance to foster important relationships with faculty members, which turned out to be invaluable. There are numerous avenues to connect with faculty, and doing so can significantly enhance your university experience. My primary lesson? Make the most of the support offered—you can never receive too much help!
### Concluding Thoughts
In summary, my inaugural year at Imperial has illustrated that many of the anxieties I had prior to starting university were unfounded. Whether it was about establishing friendships, managing academic pressure, or seeking help, I learned that I was never genuinely alone. There are always individuals—both fellow students and staff—who are eager to lend a hand. Most crucially, I learned how to balance academic challenges with personal enjoyment, even during exam periods and strict deadlines.
If you’re about to embark on your university journey, my advice is straightforward: embrace the experience, take risks, and don’t hesitate to ask for assistance. You’ll grow in ways you never imagined, and you might just experience the best year of your life.