**Reflections on My Initial Year Studying Materials Science and Engineering**
*Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)*
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, fear, and uncertainty about what the future held. I was on the cusp of starting my journey as a first-year 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 introverted and reserved, plunging into this new chapter felt quite intimidating. Now, reflecting on the past academic year, I recognize it as a time of significant personal development, trials, and a lot of enjoyment. But what have I truly learned, and where do I find myself now?
### Conquering the Anxiety of Making Friends
One of the most daunting obstacles I encountered initially was forming friendships. If you’re an incoming student, this may already be a source of concern for you. On my first day moving into my accommodation—only a few days before the semester officially commenced—I spent the whole day secluded in my room, too anxious to venture out and meet others. Fast forward to now, and I’m pleased to say that I’ve forged some of the most meaningful friendships I’ve ever experienced. Here at Imperial, I’ve discovered a second family, and it all started with a few instances of casual conversation with individuals who were feeling just as I was.
So, what did this teach me? The essential takeaway is to make that effort early on. If you don’t feel prepared or at ease, don’t stress—there will be plenty of icebreaker events and chances to engage with others. Most importantly, be authentic. With a diverse range of individuals in the course and the university, you’re sure to connect with those who align with your interests and beliefs.
### Addressing the Academic Demands
Another considerable challenge was acclimating to the workload and the heightened complexity of the material. The transition from A-levels to university was marked, and the shift from the first term to the second felt even more intense. Being thrust into this setting can sometimes undermine your confidence, especially seeing others appear to manage better. But here’s the reality: everyone is navigating similar struggles. If something is unclear, it’s likely that many others share your confusion.
The most valuable lesson I learned throughout my first year was the importance of asking for assistance. Whether it’s from your fellow students or the academic staff, don’t shy away from seeking help. Everyone is here to support you, and developing the skill to ask for help is vital in the early stages.
### Assistance from the Faculty
Speaking of assistance, the faculty in the Materials department are remarkable. They genuinely wish for you to thrive and understand that students often endure difficulties. The staff keep open channels of communication all year long, addressing any challenges we encounter. Although I didn’t fully engage with the pastoral support until later in the year, I regret not doing so sooner.
At the beginning of the year, I took the initiative to become a year well-being representative. This position enabled me to connect with the faculty on a deeper level, which has been invaluable. There are numerous ways to engage with the staff, and establishing these connections can greatly enrich your university journey. My primary takeaway? Make the most of the support available to you—you can never receive too much assistance!
### Concluding Thoughts
In summary, this year has illuminated for me that much of the anxiety I felt prior to and during university was misplaced. With the extensive support provided by both staff and fellow students, I’ve come to realize that I’m never truly isolated. Most importantly, I’ve learned how to juggle enjoying my time while managing the inevitable pressures of exams and deadlines.
By [Guest Blogger](https://blogs.imperial.ac.uk/student-blogs/author/bloggers/)
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