**Reflections on My Initial Year in Materials Science and Engineering**
*By Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)*
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I experienced feelings of anxiety, fear, and uncertainty regarding what was to come. I was on the brink of starting my journey 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 shy and introverted, stepping into this new phase felt akin to jumping into deep waters. Reflecting on it now, I recognize an academic year rich in development, challenges, and a multitude of memorable experiences. So, what insights have I gained from this journey, and where do I currently stand?
### Conquering the Anxiety of Building Friendships
One of the most intimidating obstacles I encountered was forming friendships. If you’re a prospective student reading this, you may feel similarly anxious—it’s a prevalent concern when starting university. On my first day in student accommodation, just days before the term kicked off, I spent the whole day retreating to my room, too overwhelmed to venture out and introduce myself to my peers.
Fast forward to now, and I can proudly assert that I’ve made some of the most incredible friends I’ve ever known. At Imperial, I’ve discovered a second family, both in my course and throughout the university. All it took was a bit of casual conversation with others who were experiencing the same feelings.
What’s the takeaway? Taking that first leap of faith at the outset of the year is invariably worthwhile. If you don’t immediately feel prepared or at ease, fear not—there will be numerous icebreaker events and chances to connect with others. Most importantly, just be yourself. With such a varied community at Imperial, you’re sure to find those who resonate with your interests and values.
### Navigating the Academic Transition
Another substantial challenge was adapting to the demanding workload and the escalated complexity of the material. The transition from A-levels to university was distinct, and the shift from the first term to the second proved to be even more taxing. Being in a high-pressure academic setting can occasionally erode your confidence, especially when you observe others studying and feel as though you’re lagging behind.
What assisted me in pushing through was the awareness that everyone is navigating similar waters. If you’re finding it tough to grasp a concept, it’s likely others are struggling too. The key is to seek assistance—whether from your peers or the teaching staff. This is undoubtedly one of the most vital skills to cultivate in your first year.
### Assistance from the Materials Department
Speaking of staff, one of the standout aspects of my year has been the exceptional support from the Materials department. The staff genuinely care about students’ success and are acutely aware of the hurdles we confront. They are understanding and maintain open lines of communication throughout the year to address any worries.
I didn’t fully engage with the pastoral support available until late in the year, but I wish I had done so sooner. At the year’s start, I embraced the opportunity to become a year well-being representative. This position enabled me to forge connections with staff members, which turned out to be tremendously beneficial. There are numerous chances to connect with staff, and I wholeheartedly encourage taking advantage of them. My primary lesson here? Don’t hesitate to tap into the resources and support systems at your disposal—you can never have too much assistance.
### Insights Gained
In summary, this year has shown me that the apprehension I felt prior to starting university—and even throughout the year—was frequently unfounded. An abundance of support exists, both from staff and fellow students, to guide you through any obstacles. I’ve come to realize that I’m never truly alone and that enjoying university life is entirely possible, even amid the pressure of exams and deadlines.
Looking back, I take pride in how far I’ve progressed. From overcoming my initial apprehensions to embracing the opportunities before me, this first year has been a transformative journey. If you’re about to embark on your own university adventure, remember to take that leap, be authentic, and utilize the support available—you’ll be astonished at what you can accomplish.
*By [Guest Blogger](https://blogs.imperial.ac.uk/student-blogs/author/bloggers/)*
*Categorised under: Uncategorised*
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