**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 anxiety, uncertainty, and skepticism regarding the future. I was on the verge of starting 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) at Imperial College London. As someone who is inherently introverted and reserved, entering this new phase felt intimidating. Now, as I reflect back, I recognize a year filled with personal development, obstacles, and remarkable experiences. But what insights has this year provided, and what is my current standing?
### Conquering the Anxiety of Forming Friendships
One of the most significant obstacles I encountered initially was forming friendships. If you’re a prospective student, you might share this concern as well. I recall my first day moving into student housing—I spent an entire day in my room, too frightened to venture out and meet anyone. However, as I sit here now, I can assertively say that I’ve made some of the best friends of my life. Imperial has turned into a second home for me, and all it required was stepping beyond my comfort zone and striking up casual conversations with others in the same boat.
So, what did I take away from this experience? Taking that initial risk at the beginning of the year is always rewarding. If you feel unprepared, don’t fret—there are numerous icebreaker events and chances to connect with others. Most crucially, be authentic. With such a varied student population, you’re sure to find individuals who resonate with your interests and values.
### Adapting to Academic Demands
Another significant challenge was adjusting to the workload and the heightened complexity of the material. The transition from A-levels to university was considerable, and the shift from the first to the second term felt even more pronounced. At times, I questioned my capabilities, especially when observing my peers studying and feeling like I was falling behind.
What aided me during this period? Reminding myself that everyone else was navigating similar struggles. If I had difficulty grasping a concept, it was likely that others were too. The essential lesson here was the importance of seeking assistance—whether from classmates or instructors. Cultivating the ability to request support is among the most beneficial skills to nurture during your first year.
### The Value of Staff Support
One of the most comforting elements of my program was the exceptional support from the teaching staff. They truly care about student success and are consistently receptive to feedback. Throughout the year, they maintained ongoing communication with us, addressing our concerns and providing direction.
Although I didn’t fully take advantage of the pastoral support until later in the year, I regret not doing so earlier. One of my best decisions was to become a year well-being representative. This role enabled me to connect with staff, which turned out to be extremely valuable. There are numerous avenues to interact with faculty, and engaging with them can significantly enhance your university experience. My primary takeaway? Make the most of the support available—you can never have too much assistance!
### Concluding Thoughts
As I reflect on my experiences, this year has shown me that the worries and fears I had before beginning university were mostly misplaced. There are abundant support systems available, from faculty to fellow students, to help you tackle challenges. Most crucially, I’ve learned that I’m never alone. Despite the stress of exams and due dates, I have discovered ways to savor my time at Imperial, and I wouldn’t exchange this experience for anything.
If you’re about to start university, my advice is straightforward: embrace the challenges, seek help when needed, and allow yourself to evolve. You’ll be astonished at what you can accomplish in just one year.