**Reflecting on My First Year in Materials Science and Engineering**
*Written by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)*
Just ten months ago, in October 2022, I experienced a whirlwind of nervousness, fear, and uncertainty about the path ahead. I was about to step into my first year as a student 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 somewhat introverted, diving into such an unfamiliar situation was daunting for me. Now, reflecting on the past year, I recognize it as a period rich with personal development, obstacles, and unforgettable moments. But what insights has this year provided, and where do I find myself today?
### Making Friends: The Initial Hurdle
One of the most anxiety-inducing challenges I encountered was establishing friendships. If you are a future student reading this, it’s likely something you’re concerned about as well. On my first day in student housing, just prior to the term commencing, I spent the whole day cloistered in my room, too frightened to venture out and introduce myself. Fast forward to now, and I can proudly say I’ve formed some of the most cherished friendships I’ve ever known—people who feel like family here at Imperial.
What have I taken away from this experience? I discovered that taking that initial leap of faith at the beginning of the year is essential. Even if you’re unsure or uncomfortable, don’t fret—there are numerous ice-breaker events and chances to connect with others. Above all, I learned that authenticity is vital. With such a diverse array of individuals in the course and university, you are bound to encounter others who resonate with your interests and principles.
### Managing the Workload and Academic Demands
Another major challenge was adjusting to the intensity of the workload and the complexity of the subject matter. There was a definite leap from A-levels, and transitioning from the first term to the second proved even more demanding. Being in such a rigorous academic milieu can sometimes undermine your confidence. You might observe peers studying and feel inadequate in comparison.
What helped me surmount this feeling was realizing that everyone faces similar struggles. If something eludes your understanding, it’s likely that others share the same experience. The most crucial lesson from my first year was the importance of seeking assistance—whether from classmates or faculty. Don’t hesitate to reach out; it can profoundly impact your journey.
### Support from the Faculty
On the topic of faculty, the team in the Materials department is simply fantastic. They sincerely wish for your success and recognize the challenges students encounter. Throughout the year, they maintained transparent communication with us regarding any difficulties we were facing. I didn’t fully leverage the pastoral support until the later part of the year, but I wish I had tapped into it sooner.
At the start of the year, I took a bold step by volunteering as a wellbeing representative for my year group. This role enabled me to form better connections with the staff, which turned out to be incredibly beneficial. There are numerous avenues to cultivate relationships with faculty, and doing so can significantly enhance your time at university. My key takeaway from this aspect of university life is to fully utilize the support at your disposal. You can never receive too much assistance!
### Final Thoughts
Overall, this year has shown me that the apprehension I felt before and during university was largely misguided. With the extensive support from both faculty and peers, those anxieties can be lessened. I’ve realized that I’m never truly on my own, and I’ve learned how to juggle enjoying my time with the unavoidable pressures of exams and deadlines.
By [Guest Blogger](https://blogs.imperial.ac.uk/student-blogs/author/bloggers/)
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