**Reflections on My Initial Year in Materials Science and Engineering**
*Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)*
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with nerves, fear, and uncertainty regarding what was to come. I was set to begin 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. For someone who had always been introverted and reserved, leaping into this new phase was intimidating. Now, as I reflect on the past academic year, I recognize a time of substantial personal development, challenges, and a wealth of enjoyment. But what insights have I gained, and how do I find myself now?
### Forming Friendships: The Initial Major Hurdle
A major source of anxiety upon starting university was the prospect of forming friendships. If you are a future student reading this, you may share the same concern. I certainly did. On my first day in accommodation, I spent the entire time hiding in my room, too shy to venture out and meet others. Fast forward to today, and I can proudly say that I’ve forged some of the best friendships I’ve ever known. I’ve discovered a second family here at Imperial, both within my program and across the greater university community.
So, what have I realized? I learned that taking that first step is vital. Even if you feel unprepared or uneasy, don’t fret—there will be numerous social events and chances to engage with others. Most importantly, stay true to yourself. With such a diverse array of personalities and backgrounds at university, you’re sure to connect with individuals who share your interests and values.
### Managing the Workload and Academic Expectations
Another significant challenge was adapting to the workload and the complexity of the material. The shift from A-levels was stark, and the transition from the first term to the second was even more pronounced. Being thrust into such a demanding environment can shake your confidence, especially when you see peers diligently studying and feel as if you’re lagging behind.
What helped me navigate this was understanding that everyone else is facing similar struggles. If you find something perplexing, it’s likely that others are too. The key is to reach out for assistance—whether from your classmates or the faculty. This is perhaps the most crucial lesson I absorbed during my first year: don’t hesitate to ask for help.
### Encouragement from the Faculty
On the topic of faculty, the support from the Materials department has been remarkable. The lecturers and tutors genuinely care about your success and comprehend the difficulties students encounter. They keep communication channels open throughout the year, ensuring that students’ concerns are recognized.
I didn’t fully take advantage of the pastoral support until later in the year, and I regret not doing it sooner. At the beginning of the year, I took a bold step by becoming a well-being representative for my cohort. This role allowed me to connect with the faculty more intimately, which proved to be invaluable. There are numerous avenues to connect with staff, and doing so can significantly enhance your university journey. My biggest lesson here? Utilize the support available to you—there’s no such thing as too much help!
### Concluding Thoughts
Reflecting back, this year has shown me that the anxiety I experienced before entering university—and even throughout the year—was mostly unfounded. With a wide spectrum of support from both faculty and fellow students, I’ve discovered that I’m never truly alone. Most importantly, I’ve learned how to balance having fun with navigating the unavoidable pressures of exams and deadlines.
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*By [Guest Blogger](https://blogs.imperial.ac.uk/student-blogs/author/bloggers/)*
*Categorised under: Uncategorised*
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