**Thoughts on My Initial Year in Materials Science and Engineering**
*By Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)*
Ten months prior, in October 2022, I was enveloped in anxiety, trepidation, and doubt regarding what awaited me. 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 Imperial College London. As someone who has always been introverted and quiet, embarking on this new journey felt daunting. Now, in hindsight, I reflect on a year brimming with personal development, challenges, and memorable moments. So, what insights have I gained, and what is my current perspective?
### Conquering the Anxiety of Forming Friendships
One of the most significant hurdles I encountered early on was establishing friendships. If you are a prospective student, you may share similar apprehensions. On my first day in student accommodation, I was so overwhelmed by the prospect of meeting new people that I spent the whole day in my room. Yet, fast-forward to now, and I can confidently affirm that I’ve formed some of the closest friendships I’ve ever had.
Imperial has grown to be a second home for me, starting with brief chats with others who were experiencing the same feelings. My key takeaway? Take that step. Even if you feel unprepared, there will be numerous icebreaker events and chances to engage with others. Above all, be your authentic self—Imperial is a melting pot of diverse individuals, and you are certain to find people who resonate with your interests and values.
### Adapting to Academic Challenges
Another considerable obstacle was adjusting to the academic demands and complexity. The shift from A-levels to university was considerable, and the leap from the first to the second term was even more pronounced. At times, I questioned my capabilities, especially when witnessing others study intensely and feeling as if I was lagging behind.
What enabled me to persevere was the understanding that everyone experiences challenges at some point. If something confuses you, it’s likely that others share that confusion. The most constructive action you can take is to seek assistance—whether from classmates or faculty. Learning to request support is one of the crucial lessons I took away from my inaugural year.
### Assistance from the Department
Speaking of assistance, the personnel in the Materials Science and Engineering department are remarkable. They genuinely aspire for students to excel and are perpetually receptive to feedback. Throughout the year, they maintained open communication with us, addressing our concerns and providing direction.
I didn’t fully tap into the pastoral support available until later in the year, but I wish I had started sooner. One of the wisest decisions I made was to become a year well-being representative. This position enabled me to foster connections with staff members, which turned out to be immensely valuable. There are various avenues to engage with faculty, and doing so can significantly enhance your university experience. My advice? Make the most of the support at your disposal—you can never have enough!
### Concluding Thoughts
Upon reflecting on my first year, I’ve come to realize that the apprehension I felt before stepping into university—and even throughout the year—was frequently unwarranted. There are numerous support systems available, from staff to fellow students, to assist you in navigating the obstacles. Most importantly, I’ve learned that I am never alone and that balancing academic demands with a fulfilling university experience is achievable.
If you are about to embark on your journey at Imperial, seize the opportunities that lie ahead. Take the plunge, seek help when necessary, and above all, relish the experience!