**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 was enveloped in feelings of anxiety, fear, and uncertainty regarding what awaited me. I was on the cusp 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 quiet and introverted, embarking on such a significant life transition felt daunting. Now, reflecting on the past academic year, I recognize it as a time of enormous personal development, obstacles, and numerous unforgettable experiences. So, what have I learned this year, and where do I find myself today?
### Conquering the Anxiety of Making Connections
One of the most daunting obstacles I encountered was the challenge of establishing new friendships. If you’re a prospective student reading this, you might share that same sense of dread. On my first day in student housing, just days before the term officially commenced, I spent the entire day sequestered in my room, too anxious to venture out and introduce myself to others. Fast forward to today, and I can proudly say that I’ve forged some of the finest friendships I’ve ever had.
The breakthrough came with the realization that everyone was experiencing similar feelings—anxious and eager to connect with others. Initiating small talk and participating in icebreaker events led me to individuals with shared interests and experiences. As time passed, these new acquaintances transformed into my second family at Imperial. My most significant lesson? Take that leap of faith early. Even if you’re not quite prepared or feel uneasy at first, numerous opportunities will arise to meet people. And above all, simply be yourself—Imperial’s diverse community guarantees you’ll connect with those who resonate with you.
### Addressing the Academic Shift
Another significant challenge was adapting to the workload and the heightened complexity of the material. The leap from A-levels to university was substantial, and the transition from the first term to the second proved even more daunting. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed or question your capabilities when surrounded by high-achieving classmates.
What helped me navigate this transition was understanding that I wasn’t the only one feeling this way. If I struggled to grasp a concept, it was likely that others were facing similar difficulties. The essential step was to seek assistance—whether from peers or faculty. This straightforward act of reaching out became one of the most important lessons I absorbed during my first year.
### The Supportive Faculty
Speaking of faculty, the Materials department at Imperial has been remarkable. They genuinely care about students’ success and are understanding of the challenges we encounter. Throughout the year, they maintained open lines of communication with us, addressing our worries and providing support.
Although I didn’t fully take advantage of the pastoral support available until the end of the year, I regret not doing so sooner. One of the best choices I made was to become a year well-being representative. This position gave me the chance to interact with staff on a deeper level, resulting in an invaluable experience. Whether through formal roles or informal conversations, getting to know the faculty is highly recommended. They’re there to assist, so make sure to exploit the resources and support they provide—you can never have too much assistance!
### Insights Gained
Looking back, this year has shown me that the apprehension I felt before starting university—and even throughout the year—was often unwarranted. With the backing of staff, classmates, and the broader university community, those feelings of uncertainty and fear became manageable. I’ve learned that I’m never truly alone, and I’ve found a way to balance enjoying life with the unavoidable pressures of exams and deadlines.
As I look ahead, I’m thankful for the progress and experiences that have shaped me over the past year. To anyone getting ready to embark on their university journey: embrace the challenges, take those leaps of faith, and remember that support is always accessible.
*By [Guest Blogger](https://blogs.imperial.ac.uk/student-blogs/author/bloggers/)*
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