**Thoughts on My Initial Year in Materials Science and Engineering**
*By Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)*
Nearly ten months ago, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with nerves, uncertainty, and self-doubt regarding what was to come. I was on the brink 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. Being someone who has always been somewhat introverted, embarking on this new phase of my life felt daunting. In hindsight, I can see a year marked by personal development, challenges, and remarkable experiences. So, what have I discovered, and where do I find myself today?
### Conquering the Anxiety of Socializing
One of the most significant challenges I encountered was forming new friendships. If you are an incoming student, this might be a concern for you as well. On my very first day in student housing, the thought of meeting new individuals was so daunting that I ended up spending the entire day in my room, steering clear of social gatherings. However, as I reflect on my journey now, I can assert with confidence that I’ve formed some of the best friendships of my life.
Imperial has truly become a second home for me, and it only required me to step out of my comfort bubble and initiate small conversations with fellow students who were in similar situations. My main takeaway? Make that move at the beginning of the year. If you don’t feel ready, don’t fret—there will be numerous icebreaker events and chances to meet new people. Most importantly, just be yourself. With such a varied student population, you are sure to find others who share your interests and values.
### Adapting to the Academic Demands
Another significant challenge was getting used to the academic workload and the heightened difficulty of the material. The transition from A-levels to university was substantial, with the shift from the first to the second term being even more demanding. At times, I questioned my capabilities, especially when observing others studying and sensing that I was lagging behind.
What helped me navigate this was the understanding that I wasn’t the only one experiencing these feelings. If I struggled with a concept, it was likely that my peers were facing similar battles. The best advice I can offer? Don’t hesitate to seek assistance. This is one of the most crucial skills to cultivate in your first year. Whether it’s reaching out to classmates or requesting help from professors, always feel free to ask questions.
### Assistance from Faculty and Wellbeing Services
One of the most invaluable elements of my experience has been the outstanding support from the Materials Science department. The staff genuinely care about student success and are always receptive to feedback and discussions regarding any obstacles we encounter.
Although I didn’t take full advantage of the pastoral support until later in the year, I wish I had utilized it earlier. At the outset, I took a step by becoming a well-being representative for my year, which gave me the chance to forge connections with faculty members. Familiarizing yourself with your professors and support staff can be extremely beneficial, and I highly encourage you to make use of the resources available to you.
### Essential Insights from My First Year
As I reflect on my first year, I’ve come to understand that the apprehension I experienced before starting university was largely unwarranted. Numerous support systems are established, spanning from staff to fellow students, to assist you in navigating this transition. I’ve also discovered that I’m never genuinely alone in my challenges and that it’s feasible to balance academic pressures with a fulfilling university experience.
If you’re on the verge of beginning your journey at Imperial, my straightforward advice is: seize opportunities, reach out for support when necessary, and most crucially, stay true to yourself. University is a period for personal development, and with the right attitude, it can become an immensely fulfilling experience.