**Musings 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 found myself overwhelmed with nerves, apprehension, and doubts about what was to come. I was about to begin my adventure 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 rather introverted, stepping into this new phase felt intimidating. Now, reflecting on the past year, I recognize a period that has been life-changing—brimming with personal growth, obstacles, and a great deal of enjoyment. But what precisely have I gleaned from this year, and what is my current stance?
### Conquering the Anxiety of Friendship Formation
One of the most daunting obstacles I encountered at the beginning was forging friendships. If you’re an incoming student perusing this, you may be experiencing similar trepidation. On my first day in student housing, just days before classes kicked off, I spent the whole day sequestered in my room, too fearful to go out and introduce myself to anyone. Accelerate to the present, and I can assert with confidence that I’ve formed some of the most remarkable friendships I’ve ever known—friends who feel like a second family.
What did I discover from this experience? I came to understand that taking a risk at the start of the year is imperative. If you’re not prepared or feel uneasy right away, fret not—there will be numerous ice-breaking events and chances to connect with others. Most crucially, I learned that authenticity is vital. With so many diverse personalities across the course and the institution, you are sure to encounter individuals with whom you resonate.
### Managing the Academic Demands
Another major challenge was adapting to the workload and the complexity of the material. The transition from A-levels was evident, and there was an even larger leap from the first term to the second. Being in such a high-stakes academic atmosphere can sometimes undermine your confidence. You might observe others studying and feel as though you’re falling short.
What got me through this was the awareness that everyone shares similar experiences. If you find a concept challenging, it’s probable that others do as well. The most crucial lesson I absorbed in my first year? Don’t hesitate to seek assistance. Whether it’s from fellow students or faculty, reaching out for help is vital.
### The Value of Staff Support
Speaking of faculty, I cannot stress enough how incredible the professors in the Materials department are. They sincerely wish for students to thrive and are fully cognizant of the challenges we encounter. Throughout the year, they kept lines of communication open, addressing our worries and providing support.
I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support available until the year was nearing its end, and I regret not doing so earlier. At the beginning of the year, I took a step forward by becoming a year well-being representative, which facilitated my connection with the staff. Cultivating relationships with faculty members is incredibly beneficial, and there are numerous avenues to do so. My key takeaway? Make the best use of the assistance offered—you can never receive too much support.
### Concluding Thoughts
In hindsight, this year has shown me that the apprehension I felt before entering university—and even throughout the year—was largely misplaced. With the extensive support provided by both staff and peers, I learned that I was never genuinely alone. I also discovered how to balance exam and deadline stress with pleasure, maximizing my university experience.
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*By [Guest Blogger](https://blogs.imperial.ac.uk/student-blogs/author/bloggers/)*
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