**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 a whirlwind of nerves, apprehension, and uncertainty about the road ahead. I was on the verge of starting 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, venturing into the unknown felt quite daunting. Now, reflecting on an academic year brimming with growth, hurdles, and a fair amount of enjoyment, I recognize just how much I’ve evolved and the distance I’ve traveled.
### Conquering the Anxiety of Making Connections
One of the most daunting obstacles I encountered at the beginning of university was forging friendships. If you’re an incoming student perusing this, you might resonate with my feelings. On my inaugural day in student housing, just before the term commenced, I spent the entire day sequestered in my room, too apprehensive to emerge and introduce myself.
Fast forward to now, and I can proudly assert that I’ve formed some of the most meaningful friendships I’ve ever experienced. These connections have morphed into my second family, both within my academic program and throughout the wider university community. What catalyzed this change? It all kicked off with casual conversations and finding common ground with others who were navigating the same experience.
What I realized is that taking chances at the beginning of the year is incredibly rewarding. If you’re not quite ready immediately, have no fears—there will be a multitude of icebreaker events and chances to meet others. Above all, just be yourself. With such a diverse array of individuals at university, you’re sure to discover those who resonate with your interests and ideals.
### Addressing the Academic Shift
Another major hurdle was acclimating to the workload and the complexity of the course material. The transition from A-levels to university was stark, and the shift from the first term to the second felt even more pronounced. It can be easy to get overwhelmed and question your capabilities when witnessing others study and wondering if you’re managing to keep pace.
What assisted me in navigating this was the realization that everyone is experiencing similar feelings. If you’re struggling to grasp a concept, others are likely facing the same challenges. The crux is to reach out for assistance—whether it’s from classmates or faculty. Learning to ask for help is arguably the most crucial lesson I gained from my first year.
### The Encouraging Faculty
Regarding faculty, the Materials Science department at Imperial is outstanding. The lecturers and tutors genuinely care about students’ success and are understanding of the challenges we endure. They keep communication lines open with us throughout the year, responding to our concerns and offering support.
Although I didn’t fully engage with the pastoral support until the latter part of the year, I wish I had sought it out sooner. Taking on the role of well-being representative for the year was a bold move I made at the onset, and it became one of the best choices I could make. It provided me with the chance to foster relationships with staff, which has proven invaluable.
There are numerous avenues to connect with faculty, and I highly suggest seizing these opportunities. Whether through formal positions or informal exchanges, cultivating these relationships can have a significant impact. My paramount takeaway? Don’t hesitate to utilize the resources and support at your disposal—you can never have an excess of help.
### Insights Gained
Looking back, this year has made me realize that the anxiety I experienced—both prior to and during university—was largely unjustified. With the extensive support options available from staff and fellow students, I was never genuinely alone. I’ve learned to balance exam and deadline-related stress with personal enjoyment, and I’ve developed in ways I never anticipated.
To anyone gearing up to embark on their university path: embrace the challenges, take those bold steps, and remember that assistance is always close at hand.
*By [Guest Blogger](https://blogs.imperial.ac.uk/student-blogs/author/bloggers/)*
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