**Thoughts on My Initial Year in Materials Science and Engineering**
*By Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)*
Ten months back, in October 2022, I was riddled with anxiety, uncertainty, and apprehension regarding what awaited me. As a first-year student preparing to embark on my degree 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), I found myself venturing far beyond my comfort zone. Reflecting on the past year, I recognize it as a time of personal development, challenges, and numerous unforgettable moments. But what have I gained from this experience, and what is my current position?
### Conquering the Anxiety of Forming Friendships
One of the most intimidating facets of commencing university was the task of making new friends. If you’re an aspiring student reading this, you may resonate with those feelings. On my inaugural day in student housing—just days before classes officially commenced—I spent the whole day in my room, too shy to step out and introduce myself.
Now, I can assert that I’ve forged some of the finest friendships of my life. Imperial has turned into a second home, and all it required were a few brief conversations with individuals who were equally apprehensive.
So, what did I take away from this? First, taking that first step is invariably worthwhile. If you don’t feel ready immediately, don’t fret—countless icebreakers and chances to engage with others will come your way. Second, the most beneficial approach is to be authentic. With such a varied student community, you’re sure to encounter individuals who resonate with your interests and principles.
### Adapting to the Academic Demands
Another significant challenge was adjusting to the workload and the heightened complexity of the material. The transition from A-levels to university was considerable, and the shift from the first to the second term felt even more pronounced. It’s simple to feel overwhelmed or question your skills when you observe others studying and seemingly mastering concepts with ease.
What aided me during this time was the understanding that everyone faces difficulties at some point. If something isn’t clear to you, odds are others are experiencing the same confusion. The essential thing is to seek help—whether from your classmates or the teaching faculty. Learning to ask for assistance is one of the most crucial skills you can cultivate in your freshman year.
### Assistance from Faculty and Wellness Programs
One of the most comforting aspects of my experience has been the remarkable support from the Materials Science department. The staff truly desire for students to thrive and are consistently receptive to feedback. They are aware of the hurdles we encounter and prioritize open communication throughout the academic year.
I didn’t fully take advantage of the pastoral support available until later, although I wish I had engaged with it earlier. At the beginning of the year, I made a bold move by becoming a well-being representative for my group. This position enabled me to foster connections with faculty members, which turned out to be immensely beneficial. There are numerous ways to engage with professors, and doing so can significantly enrich your university journey. My primary takeaway? Utilize the support at your disposal—you can never have excessive help.
### Concluding Thoughts
Reflecting on this year, I’ve come to realize that many of the fears I harbored—both prior to and during university—were unfounded. With the proper backing from faculty and fellow students, those concerns became manageable. Most importantly, I’ve discovered that I’m never genuinely alone and that striking a balance between academic demands and an enjoyable university life is entirely achievable.
If you’re on the brink of starting your own university journey, my straightforward advice is: take risks, seek assistance, and seize every opportunity that presents itself.