**Reflections on My Inaugural Year in Materials Science and Engineering**
*By Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)*
Ten months prior, in October 2022, I was consumed by apprehension, dread, and ambiguity regarding what awaited me. I was about to commence my adventure as a freshman 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, delving into the unfamiliar felt quite daunting. Now, as I reflect on an academic year rich with growth, obstacles, and a lot of enjoyment, I can assert it was a life-changing journey. So, what insights have I gained, and what is my current state?
### Conquering the Anxiety of Forming Friendships
One of the most intimidating obstacles I encountered was creating friendships. Entering university can indeed be daunting, and for prospective students reading this, it’s completely normal to have concerns about this aspect. On my initial day in student housing, mere days ahead of the semester’s start, I spent the whole day secluded in my room, too anxious to venture out and introduce myself.
Fast forward to now, and I’m proud to say I’ve forged some of the strongest friendships I’ve ever known. These bonds have become my second family, encompassing both my course peers and friends from across the university. The key was stepping out of my safe space and engaging in small conversations with others who were just as anxious as I was.
So, what’s the takeaway? Embrace the leap early on. Even if you don’t feel prepared, numerous icebreakers and activities are designed to help you connect with others. And above all, be genuine. With such a vibrant community at Imperial, you’re sure to find people who resonate with your interests and principles.
### Navigating the Academic Shift
Another major challenge was adjusting to the heavier workload and the more complex 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’s easy to become overwhelmed and question your capabilities, particularly when you observe others appearing to excel.
What aided me in managing this was the realization that everyone is experiencing similar struggles. If you’re finding something difficult to grasp, it’s highly likely others are too. The essential thing is to seek assistance—whether from classmates or teaching staff. Learning to ask for support may well be the most critical skill to cultivate during your initial year.
### The Encouraging Staff
Speaking of assistance, the faculty in the Materials department are remarkable. They truly care about students’ success and understand the challenges we encounter. Throughout the year, they kept the lines of communication open, addressing our issues and providing guidance.
Although I didn’t make full use of the pastoral support until the year’s conclusion, I wish I had engaged sooner. Taking on the role of a year well-being representative was one of the proactive steps I took early on. This role allowed me to establish relationships with staff members, which turned out to be invaluable. There are various avenues to connect with staff, and doing so can significantly enrich your university experience. My key advice? Utilize the support that’s available—you can never have too much assistance!
### Insights Gained
Reflecting on this year, I’ve learned that the anxiety I experienced—both prior to starting university and throughout the year—was often uncalled for. With the plethora of support available from faculty and fellow students, I came to understand that I was never genuinely isolated. I also gained insight into balancing the stress from exams and deadlines with periods of joy and leisure.
In conclusion, my first year at Imperial has been a path of growth, self-exploration, and learning to tackle challenges head-on. For anyone preparing to embark on their own university journey, bear in mind: take the plunge, seek assistance, and be true to yourself. You’ve got this!
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**By [Guest Blogger](https://blogs.imperial.ac.uk/student-blogs/author/bloggers/)**
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