**Reflections on My First Year in Materials Science and Engineering**
*By Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)*
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, apprehension, and uncertainty about what was to come. I was on the brink of beginning 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. Being someone who has always been introverted and reserved, stepping into the unfamiliar was not something I was used to. Reflecting on the year now, I recognize a journey rich with personal development, obstacles, and lots of enjoyment. But what insights have I gained, and what is my current position?
### Conquering the Anxiety of Making New Friends
A significant challenge I encountered was the fear of making friends. Entering university can feel daunting, and if you’re a future student reading this, it’s likely a source of concern for you as well. On my inaugural day in student housing—just days before classes officially started—I spent the entire day sequestered in my room, too apprehensive to venture out and introduce myself to others.
Fast forward to the present, and I’m happy to report that I’ve formed some of the best friendships of my life. The individuals I’ve encountered here, both in my program and throughout the university, have become like an extended family to me. All it took was stepping away from my comfort zone and initiating brief conversations with others who were equally new to this experience.
What have I gleaned? Taking that initial plunge at the onset of the year is vital. If you’re not feeling prepared from the start, don’t fret—there are numerous icebreaker events and occasions to connect with others. Most importantly, be authentic. With such a diverse community at Imperial, you’re bound to encounter people who resonate with your interests and values.
### Navigating the Academic Shift
Another significant obstacle was acclimating to the heavier workload and the heightened complexity of the subject matter. The leap from A-levels to university was substantial, and the transition from the first to the second term felt even more demanding. It’s easy to become overwhelmed or doubt your capabilities when you observe others studying and apparently thriving.
What encouraged me to persevere was understanding that everyone is experiencing similar challenges. If you find something perplexing, it’s likely that others are grappling with it too. The key is to seek assistance—whether it’s from your fellow students or the teaching staff. Learning to request support is arguably the most crucial skill to cultivate in your first year.
### Assistance from Faculty
On the topic of assistance, the faculty in the Materials department are outstanding. They sincerely wish for students to thrive and are fully aware of the challenges we encounter. Throughout the year, they kept communication channels open and displayed empathy toward our hardships.
I didn’t fully take advantage of the pastoral support options until the year’s end, but I wish I had engaged sooner. At the year’s outset, I took a bold step by becoming a well-being representative. This position enabled me to form connections with staff members, which proved to be incredibly beneficial. There are various ways to interact with faculty, and doing so can significantly enhance your university experience. My most important takeaway here? Make the most of the support systems at your disposal—you can never have too much assistance.
### Insights Gained
Looking back on this year, I’ve realized that the anxiety I experienced before beginning university—and even throughout the year—was often misplaced. There is a wealth of resources and support systems in place, from faculty to fellow students, to guide you through challenges. I’ve discovered that I’m never truly solitary, and I’ve learned how to manage stress from exams and deadlines while still enjoying moments of happiness and fun.
This year has been one of remarkable personal growth, and I’m eager to see what the future brings as I continue my path in Materials Science and Engineering at Imperial.
—
*By [Guest Blogger](https://blogs.imperial.ac.uk/student-blogs/author/bloggers/)*
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