**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 apprehension, anxiety, and uncertainty as I got ready to embark on my journey 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) as a freshman. Stepping into the unknown was not something my introverted nature was familiar with. Now, reflecting on the past academic year, I recognize a time of significant personal development, obstacles, and a lot of enjoyment. But what have I discovered, and what is my current situation?
### Forming Friendships: A Challenging Yet Fulfilling Journey
One of the initial and most daunting hurdles I encountered was establishing friendships. If you’re an incoming student reading this, you may be concerned about the same issue. On my first day of moving into my residence, just days before the semester started, I spent the whole day in my room, too apprehensive to venture out and introduce myself. Fast forward to now, and I can proudly say I’ve formed some of the best friendships I’ve ever had, both in my program and throughout the university. I now have a second family here at Imperial, and it all began with casual conversations with others who were in the same situation as me.
So, what was my takeaway? I discovered that taking that first step is always beneficial. If you don’t feel ready or at ease immediately, that’s perfectly fine! There will be numerous social events and occasions to meet new people. Most crucially, I learned that being yourself is essential. With so many different individuals throughout the course and the university, you’re likely to find those who align with your interests and principles.
### Confronting the Workload: A Challenging Yet Manageable Experience
Another significant challenge I faced was the workload and the complexity of the material. There was a clear transition from A-levels, and an even more substantial jump from the first term to the second. Being immersed in such a demanding academic setting can occasionally undermine your self-assurance, particularly when you observe others studying and feel like you’re lagging behind. However, here’s the reality: everyone is in similar situations. If something is unclear, it’s likely that others feel the same way. Therefore, don’t hesitate to reach out for help. This might be the most valuable lesson I acquired during my first year—seek assistance from your classmates and faculty when you need it.
### Assistance from Faculty: An Essential Resource
Regarding faculty support, the professors in the Materials department are exceptional. They sincerely wish for your success and recognize the hurdles students encounter. Throughout the year, they consistently communicated with us, addressing our queries and providing assistance. I did not fully utilize the support services until later in the year, and I wish I had taken advantage of them from the beginning.
At the year’s outset, I made the decision to become a well-being representative for my year. This role enabled me to build rapport with the faculty, which proved to be immensely beneficial. There are countless ways to foster relationships with the faculty, and doing so can significantly enhance your university experience. My main insight? Utilize the support and resources available to you—you can never have too much!
### Closing Thoughts: Conquering Anxiety and Embracing Campus Life
In conclusion, this year has shown me that the anxiety I experienced prior to and during university was mostly unfounded. With the extensive range of support offered by both faculty and fellow students, I was never genuinely alone. I’ve learned how to manage the pressures from exams and deadlines while still enjoying my time here, and I’ve developed in ways I never anticipated.
By [Guest Blogger](https://blogs.imperial.ac.uk/student-blogs/author/bloggers/)
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