**Reflections on My Inaugural Year in Materials Science and Engineering**
*By Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)*
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed by anxiety, uncertainty, and self-doubt regarding what the future held. I was about to embark on 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. Having previously been shy and withdrawn, immersing myself in this new chapter felt daunting. Now, reflecting on the previous academic year, I recognize a path filled with personal development, obstacles, and numerous unforgettable moments. So, what insights have I gained, and what is my current status?
### Conquering the Anxiety of Forming Friendships
One of the primary hurdles I encountered early on was the challenge of making friends. If you’re a prospective student, this may be one of your major worries too. On my first day in student housing, I felt so daunted by the thought of introducing myself that I opted to stay in my room all day. However, fast forward to today, and I’m proud to say I’ve cultivated some of the finest friendships I’ve ever had.
I’ve discovered a second family here at Imperial, and all it took was venturing beyond my comfort zone and initiating small conversations with others in similar situations. My key takeaway? Make that move early. If you’re not feeling prepared, don’t fret—there will be numerous icebreaker events and chances to meet others. Most importantly, just be yourself. With such a varied student population, you’re sure to connect with individuals who align with your interests and principles.
### Adapting to Academic Rigor
Another major challenge was getting used to the academic workload and the heightened complexity of the subjects. The leap from A-levels to university was quite pronounced, and the shift from the first to second term proved even more demanding. At times, observing others study effectively made me question my abilities.
What helped me navigate this was understanding that everyone was experiencing similar struggles. If I grappled with a concept, the likelihood was that my peers were too. The essential lesson? Don’t shy away from seeking assistance. Whether it’s from classmates or instructors, asking for help is one of the most beneficial skills you can cultivate in your first year.
### The Significance of Finding Help
This brings me to a vital point—the remarkable support offered by the Materials Science department. The staff genuinely aspire for students to thrive, recognizing the hurdles we encounter. They keep communication lines open year-round, making sure our concerns are acknowledged.
Even though I didn’t fully engage with the pastoral support until later in the year, I wish I had taken advantage of it sooner. Early on, I boldly stepped up to be a year well-being representative, which facilitated my connections with staff members—something I found tremendously rewarding. There are numerous avenues to engage with faculty, and doing so can significantly enhance your university experience. My recommendation? Utilize the support that’s available. You can’t receive too much assistance!
### Closing Thoughts
In hindsight, this year has shown me that much of the anxiety I felt prior to and during my university journey was largely unwarranted. There are numerous support mechanisms in place, from faculty to fellow students, that can ease the transition. Above all, I’ve realized that I’m never alone on this path. Despite the stresses of exams and deadlines, I’ve discovered ways to savor my time at university, and I wouldn’t trade this experience for anything.
If you’re about to kick off your own university adventure, embrace the challenges, seek support as needed, and most importantly, relish the experience. It’s a time destined for growth, learning, and creating lasting memories.
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**By [Guest Blogger](https://blogs.imperial.ac.uk/student-blogs/author/bloggers/)**
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