**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 consumed by anxiety, fear, and uncertainty regarding what was to come. I was about to begin my path 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). For someone who has always been introverted and cautious, venturing into the unknown was quite intimidating. Now, reflecting on my first year, I recognize a time of significant personal development, obstacles, and memorable experiences. So, what insights has this year provided, and where do I find myself now?
### Conquering the Anxiety of Friendship
One of the most daunting tasks I encountered was forging friendships. Entering university can be overwhelming, and if you’re a potential student reading this, you may be feeling the same apprehension. On my initial day in student housing, just before the term commenced, I spent the whole day secluding myself in my room, too anxious to venture out and meet others. Fast forward to now, and I can proudly say I’ve formed some of the closest friendships I’ve ever known. Here at Imperial, I’ve discovered a second family, both within the university and in my program.
What aided me? Taking that first courageous step. Even if you’re not prepared or at ease right away, don’t stress—there are numerous icebreaker events and ways to engage with others. I also grasped the significance of being authentic. With such a rich community at Imperial, you’re bound to encounter individuals who resonate with your interests and beliefs.
### Navigating the Academic Shift
Another crucial challenge was adapting to the workload and the heightened complexity of the content. The leap from A-levels to university was significant, and the shift from the first to the second term felt even more pronounced. It’s normal to feel overwhelmed or second-guess your capabilities, particularly when you observe others studying and assume they’re coping better than you. But here’s the reality: everyone is sailing in the same boat. If you’re struggling to grasp a concept, it’s likely others are as well.
The most essential lesson I learned was to seek assistance. Whether it’s from fellow students or faculty, reaching out can make a substantial difference. Don’t hesitate to request clarification or help—it’s a skill that will benefit you throughout your academic journey.
### The Value of Support and Connection
Speaking of assistance, the staff in the Materials department are outstanding. They sincerely wish for students to thrive and understand the hurdles we encounter. Throughout the year, they kept lines of communication open and were always eager to address our concerns. Although I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support until later in the year, I wish I had engaged sooner.
At the year’s onset, I took a bold step by becoming a year well-being representative. This position enabled me to cultivate connections with staff members, which proved to be immensely beneficial. There are numerous avenues to interact with staff, and doing so can significantly enrich your university experience. My key takeaway? Make the most of the support available to you—you can never have too much assistance.
### Insights Gained
Reflecting on the past year, I’ve learned that the anxiety I experienced—both prior to starting university and throughout the year—was often unwarranted. With the broad array of support options accessible from staff and peers, I realized I was never genuinely alone. I also discovered how to balance the stress from exams and deadlines with moments of enjoyment and lightheartedness.
In conclusion, my first year at Imperial has been a transformative journey. It has illustrated the importance of stepping outside my comfort zone, seeking help when necessary, and embracing the opportunities before me. If you’re on the cusp of starting your own university adventure, remember that while it might feel daunting initially, it’s also an incredible chance for growth and exploration.
—
*By [Guest Blogger](https://blogs.imperial.ac.uk/student-blogs/author/bloggers/)*
*Categorised under: Uncategorised*
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