**Reflections on My Initial Year Studying 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 doubt about what awaited me. I was about to embark on my first year pursuing [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 somewhat introverted, entering this new phase seemed daunting. In retrospect, I can see that this year was filled with personal development, hurdles, and unforgettable moments. But what insights have I gained, and what is my current perspective?
### Conquering the Anxiety of Building Friendships
A major hurdle I encountered was the challenge of forming new friendships. If you’re an incoming student, this might be a significant worry for you as well. On my first day at the student residence, I felt so daunted that I ended up staying in my room the entire day, too anxious to meet anyone. However, looking back now, I can confidently declare that I have made some of the finest friends I could ever hope for.
The essential takeaway? Take initiative early on. Even if you feel unprepared, there will be myriad ice-breaker events and chances to connect with others. Most importantly, stay true to yourself—Imperial is a tapestry of diverse individuals, and you’re sure to discover people who resonate with your passions and values.
### Adjusting to the Academic Demands
The shift from A-levels to university was a considerable leap, and the workload escalated even more during the second term. At times, I grappled with self-doubt, especially when I noticed others studying and felt like I was lagging behind. However, I quickly came to realize that everyone encountered the same feelings. If you’re struggling to grasp something, it’s highly likely others are too—so don’t be afraid to seek assistance.
This was one of the most crucial lessons I absorbed in my first year: tap into the support from both classmates and faculty. Reaching out for help is not a sign of inadequacy, but rather a vital component of achieving success at university.
### The Value of Engaging with Educators
One of the standout features of studying Materials Science at Imperial is the encouraging staff. They earnestly aim for students to thrive and are consistently receptive to feedback. Throughout the year, they maintained ongoing communication with us, addressing any issues we encountered.
Although I didn’t fully take advantage of the pastoral support until later on, I wish I had engaged with it earlier. One of the top decisions I made was stepping into the role of a year well-being representative. This position allowed me to cultivate relationships with staff members, which proved to be incredibly beneficial. There are numerous ways to connect with faculty, and doing so can significantly enrich your university experience. My key takeaway? Make the most of the available support—you can never have too much assistance!
### Concluding Thoughts
Reflecting on my first year, I’ve come to understand that many of my early fears were unfounded. The backing from both the staff and my fellow students enabled me to navigate the trials of university life. I’ve discovered that I’m never genuinely isolated, and I’ve learned to juggle academic challenges while also enjoying my time.
If you’re poised to begin your adventure at Imperial, my straightforward advice is: take the plunge, seek help when needed, and seize every opportunity that comes your way.
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*By [Guest Blogger](https://blogs.imperial.ac.uk/student-blogs/author/bloggers/)*
*Categorised under: Uncategorised*
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