**Musings on My Inaugural Year in Materials Science and Engineering**
*By Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)*
Ten months ago, back in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, uncertainty, and doubts regarding the future. I was on the brink of commencing my first year in [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 reserved, entering this new phase was quite daunting. Reflecting on the past year, I realize it has been a journey of personal development, challenges, and memorable experiences. So, what have I gleaned, and what is my current standing?
### Conquering the Anxiety of Friendships
One of the most significant obstacles I encountered was forming new friendships. If you’re an incoming student, this may be a concern for you as well. On my first day at the student residence, I felt so intimidated that I remained in my room all day, too anxious to meet anyone. However, here I am today, proud to say I have made some of the greatest friends I’ve ever had.
Imperial has turned into a second home for me, and it just took a bit of stepping beyond my comfort zone and starting casual talks with others in a similar position. My key takeaway? Make that first move early! Even if you don’t feel prepared, there will be ample icebreaker activities and chances to connect with others. Above all, be authentic—Imperial boasts a wide variety of individuals, and you are sure to find friends who share your interests.
### Adapting to the Academic Rigors
Another significant challenge was adjusting to the level of academic demands. The leap from A-levels to university was substantial, and the shift from the first term to the second was even more pronounced. It can be overwhelming when you observe others studying and begin to question your own capabilities.
What assisted me during this time was acknowledging that everyone is experiencing the same struggles. If you’re grappling with a concept, it’s likely that others are too. The best approach is to seek help—whether from classmates or teaching staff. Learning to request support early on is one of the most essential skills you can cultivate in your first year.
### The Significance of Finding Support
On the topic of support, the staff in the Materials department are truly remarkable. They sincerely want students to thrive and are attuned to the difficulties we encounter. Throughout the year, they maintained an open line of communication with us, ensuring we had the assistance we needed.
I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support services until later in the year, and I wish I had tapped into them sooner. One of the best decisions I made was to become a year wellbeing representative. This position enabled me to forge connections with staff members, which turned out to be exceedingly advantageous. There are numerous avenues for engaging with the faculty, and doing so can significantly enrich your university experience. My recommendation? Take advantage of all the available support—there’s no such thing as too much help.
### Concluding Thoughts
Looking back, this year has shown me that many of the worries I harbored prior to starting university were unfounded. There exists a wealth of support from both staff and fellow students to assist in overcoming any obstacles. Most importantly, I’ve discovered that I am never truly alone, and enjoying university life is entirely possible even amidst the stress of exams and deadlines.
If you’re about to embark on your own university adventure, approach it with an open heart. Take chances, seek assistance, and most importantly, relish the journey!