**Reflecting on My Initial Year in Materials Science and Engineering**
*Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)*
Ten months prior, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, trepidation, and uncertainty regarding what lay ahead. I was on the brink of commencing 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 quiet, immersing myself in an entirely new atmosphere felt intimidating. Now, reflecting on this past academic year, I recognize a time of significant personal development, obstacles, and an abundance of enjoyment! But what precisely did I gain, and what is my current standing?
### Making Connections: Surmounting the Initial Challenge
One of the most anxiety-inducing hurdles I encountered was forming friendships. If you are a potential student reading this, you may be experiencing similar apprehensions. On my inaugural day in student housing, just a few days before classes commenced, I spent the whole day secluded in my room, too daunted to venture out and introduce myself to others. Fast forward to now, and I can assert with confidence that I’ve forged some of the most meaningful friendships of my life. I’ve discovered a second family here at Imperial, and it all began with brief conversations with individuals who were just as apprehensive as I was.
So, what did I discover? I learned that taking that first step is always a worthwhile endeavor. Even if you don’t feel prepared or at ease initially, don’t fret! There will be numerous icebreakers and events aimed at helping you bond with others. Most importantly, I realized that being authentic is essential. With such a diverse group of individuals across the university, you’re sure to encounter those who resonate with your interests and principles.
### Confronting the Workload: A Steep Learning Experience
Another major challenge was adapting to the academic demands and the complexity of the material. The transition from A-levels to university was palpable, and the leap from the first term to the second was even more pronounced. It wasn’t always easy to maintain self-assurance, particularly when I observed others studying and felt as though I wasn’t measuring up.
What aided me during this period was the understanding that everyone is navigating similar experiences. If something isn’t clear to you, it’s likely that others are also struggling. The most crucial lesson I grasped in my first year was the importance of asking for assistance. Whether it’s from classmates or faculty, seeking support is vital.
### Assistance from Staff: An Invaluable Asset
Speaking of faculty, the backing from the Materials department has been remarkable. The lecturers and tutors genuinely strive for students to thrive, and they recognize the challenges we encounter. They maintain open lines of communication with us throughout the year, addressing any issues we may have. Although I didn’t fully leverage the pastoral support until later in the academic year, I wish I had taken advantage of it sooner.
At the beginning of the year, I took a proactive step by becoming a year well-being representative. This position allowed me to connect with the staff more effectively, which has proven invaluable. There are numerous opportunities to cultivate relationships with staff members, and doing so can significantly enrich your university experience. My recommendation? Fully utilize the support available to you. You can never have too much assistance!
### Final Reflections: Embracing the Experience
In conclusion, this year has demonstrated to me that the anxiety I felt before embarking on university—and even throughout the year—was frequently unfounded. With the extensive support from both staff and my fellow students, I came to realize that I was never isolated. I also learned how to juggle enjoying my time with the inevitable pressures of examinations and deadlines.
If you’re on the verge of starting your own university journey, remember: take that plunge, seek help, and stay true to yourself. You’ve got this!
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*By [Guest Blogger](https://blogs.imperial.ac.uk/student-blogs/author/bloggers/)*
*Categorised under: Uncategorised*
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