**Reflections on My Initial Year in Materials Science and Engineering**
*By Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)*
Ten months prior, in October 2022, I was rife with anxiety, apprehension, and doubt about what awaited me. I was on the verge 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. For someone who had always been introverted and quiet, plunging into this new phase felt quite daunting. Reflecting now, I recognize an academic year filled with development, obstacles, and extraordinary experiences. So, what have I learned this year, and what is my current state?
### Conquering the Anxiety of Forming Friendships
One of the most daunting obstacles I encountered was the process of making friends. Beginning university can be intimidating, and if you are a prospective student reading this, it’s probably one of your foremost worries as well. On my first day in student housing, just a few days prior to the start of term, I spent the entire day in my room, too anxious to venture out and meet others.
Fast forward to today, and I can affirm I’ve formed some of the best friendships I’ve ever experienced—friends who genuinely feel like family. It all commenced with brief conversations with others who were experiencing similar feelings. The most important lesson I learned? Take that initial step at the start of the year. Even if you don’t feel prepared, there will be numerous icebreaker events and chances to interact with others. And above all, just be yourself. With such a diverse group of individuals across the program and university, you are destined to discover those who connect with you.
### Navigating the Academic Shift
Adapting to the demands and complexity of university-level studies was another major challenge. The transition from A-levels to university was distinct, and the shift from the first term to the second felt even more pronounced. It’s easy to feel daunted or question your capabilities, particularly when you observe others studying and assuming they are coping better than you.
The reality is, everyone faces similar challenges. If you find something perplexing, it’s likely others are struggling too. The essential thing is to seek assistance—whether from your classmates or the instructional staff. Learning to request support is perhaps the most crucial skill to cultivate in your first year.
### Assistance from the Materials Department
On the subject of support, the personnel in the Materials department have been remarkable. They sincerely desire for students to prosper and understand the hurdles we encounter. Throughout the year, they kept open channels of communication with us, addressing our issues and providing direction.
Although I did not fully utilize the pastoral resources available until the latter part of the year, I wish I had reached out sooner. Taking on the position of a year well-being representative was one of the first steps I took, and it turned out to be a fulfilling experience. It enabled me to forge connections with faculty members, which has proven invaluable. There are various opportunities to engage with staff, and doing so can greatly enrich your university experience. My primary takeaway? Make the most of the assistance and resources available—you can never have too much support!
### Key Takeaways
This year has shown me that the anxiety I felt—both prior to starting university and throughout the year—was frequently unfounded. Thanks to the abundant support from faculty and fellow students, I came to realize I was never genuinely alone. Additionally, I learned how to balance the stress of exams and deadlines with moments of joy and enjoyment.
In hindsight, my first year in Materials Science and Engineering has been a transformative experience. It has been a year of personal development, new friendships, and invaluable lessons that I will carry with me throughout my journey at Imperial and beyond.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorised*
*Tagged: [Courses](https://blogs.imperial.ac.uk/student-blogs/tag/courses/), [Featured](https://blogs.imperial.ac.uk/student-blogs/tag/featured/), [First Year](https://blogs.imperial.ac.uk/student-blogs/tag/first-year/), [Imperial College London](https://blogs.imperial.ac.uk/student-blogs/tag/imperial-college-london/)*