**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 overwhelmed with anxiety, fear, and uncertainty regarding the path that lay ahead. I was on the verge of starting my degree 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) as a freshman. For someone who has always been introverted, venturing into uncharted territory felt quite intimidating. Now reflecting on the past year, I recognize it has been a period of significant transformation—rich with personal development, challenges, and a lot of enjoyment. However, what insights have I gained, and what is my current status?
### Conquering the Anxiety of Friendship
One of the most daunting obstacles I encountered was forging friendships. If you’re an incoming student, this concern might weigh heavily on you as well. On my first day in my new accommodation—just days before classes officially started—I found myself spending the whole day in my room, far too anxious to emerge and introduce myself to others. Fast forward to the present, and I can proudly say I’ve formed some of the most meaningful friendships of my life.
The pivotal moment occurred when I challenged myself to initiate casual conversations with others who were experiencing similar feelings. Gradually, these brief exchanges blossomed into significant relationships, and I now view my friends at Imperial as a second family. The most important lesson I learned? Take that leap of faith early. Even if you’re not entirely ready, numerous icebreaker events and chances to connect with peers will abound. And above all, just be yourself. With such a richly diverse community at Imperial, you’re sure to encounter individuals who align with your interests and values.
### Addressing the Academic Hurdles
Adapting to the academic demands and the heightened difficulty of the coursework was yet another major challenge. The shift from A-levels to university studies was apparent, and the transition from the first term to the second felt even more pronounced. It’s quite easy to become overwhelmed or question your capabilities when observing others studying and appearing to thrive.
What aided me in managing this was the understanding that everyone is experiencing similar struggles. If you’re having difficulty grasping a concept, it’s likely that others are too. The crucial step is to seek help—whether from classmates or instructors. Learning to ask for assistance is arguably the most crucial skill you can cultivate during your first year.
### The Value of Support and Connection
On the topic of support, the faculty within the Materials department has been outstanding. They truly care about the success of their students and are understanding of the difficulties we encounter. Throughout the year, they kept open lines of communication with us, responding to our concerns and providing guidance.
Although I didn’t fully take advantage of the pastoral support available until later in the year, I wish I had started utilizing it much earlier. Serving as a year well-being representative was one of the initiatives I embraced at the beginning of the year. This role enabled me to foster connections with staff members, which turned out to be immensely beneficial. Whether through formal responsibilities or informal interactions, establishing relationships with staff is among the best choices you can make for yourself. My key takeaway? Make the most of the support resources available to you—you can never have excess assistance.
### Insights Gained and Future Outlook
This year has shown me that the anxiety I experienced—both before starting university and throughout the year—was frequently baseless. With a plethora of support from both staff and fellow students, I was never truly isolated. I’ve learned to manage the pressures of exams and deadlines while also cherishing moments of happiness and enjoyment, and I’ve evolved in ways I never anticipated.
As I contemplate my first year, I feel thankful for the obstacles, the friendships, and the teachings that have shaped my experience. To anyone gearing up to embark on their university adventure, rest assured it’s perfectly normal to feel apprehensive—but also recognize that you’re entering a space brimming with opportunities to learn, connect, and flourish.
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*By [Guest Blogger](https://blogs.imperial.ac.uk/student-blogs/author/bloggers/)*
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