**Thoughts 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 nerves, uncertainty, and questions about what was to come. I was on the brink of starting my first year in 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 a naturally shy and introverted person, embracing this fresh experience felt quite daunting. Reflecting back now, I can see a year rich in personal development, obstacles, and a wealth of enjoyable moments. So, what insights have I gained from this journey, and how do I feel today?
### Conquering the Anxiety of Making New Connections
A significant concern about starting university was the challenge of forging new friendships. If you’re an incoming student, this may resonate with you as well. On the inaugural day in student accommodation, right before the term began, I spent the entire day cooped up in my room, too anxious to venture out and introduce myself. However, here I am today, able to assert that I’ve formed some of the most wonderful friendships I could have hoped for. Imperial has truly become a second family to me, and it all started with stepping beyond my comfort zone and initiating small conversations with fellow students in a similar situation.
What was the most crucial lesson I learned? Don’t hesitate to make that first move. Even if you feel unprepared, there will be numerous ice-breakers and social gatherings to help you mingle with others. Most importantly, embrace your true self. Given the rich diversity of the student community, you’re sure to encounter people who resonate with your passions and principles.
### Navigating the Academic Demands
Another significant challenge was getting accustomed to the workload and the heightened complexity of university-level material. The shift from A-levels to university was substantial, and the transition from the first term to the second was even more pronounced. It’s easy to feel swamped or question your abilities, particularly when you observe others studying and assume they seem to have everything sorted.
What aided me the most was understanding that I wasn’t on this journey alone. If I grappled with a concept, likely, others did as well. My strongest piece of advice? Don’t hesitate to seek assistance. Whether from your peers or faculty members, reaching out for help is one of the most essential abilities to cultivate in your first year.
### The Value of Staff Support
A particularly comforting aspect of my course was the exceptional support from the faculty. They genuinely care about students’ success and recognize the hurdles we encounter. Throughout the year, they kept lines of communication open with us and offered countless avenues for academic and emotional support.
Although I didn’t fully leverage these resources until the tail end of the year, I wish I had tapped into them sooner. Early on, I took a bold step by becoming a year well-being representative, which enabled me to establish connections with staff members. This experience highlighted the importance of engaging with lecturers and support personnel. My key takeaway? Utilize the help that’s accessible to you—there’s no such thing as too much assistance!
### Closing Thoughts
Looking back, my first year at Imperial has shown me that many of my initial apprehensions were unfounded. Whether it involved making friends, managing academic challenges, or asking for help, I discovered that I was never truly alone. With the right framework of support and a positive mindset, I learned how to juggle difficulties alongside pleasures, even in high-stress periods like exams and deadlines.
To anyone about to embark on their university adventure: embrace the journey, step outside of your comfort zone, and remember that assistance is always within reach whenever you require it.
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**By [Guest Blogger](https://blogs.imperial.ac.uk/student-blogs/author/bloggers/)**
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