**Thoughts 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 engulfed by nerves, fear, and uncertainty about what was to come. I was about to begin my journey as a fresh 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 has always been introverted, stepping into the unknown was quite daunting. Now, as I reflect on the past academic year, I recognize it as a time of significant personal development, challenges, and numerous joyful experiences. So, what insights have I gained, and what is my current standing?
### Conquering the Anxiety of Forming Friendships
One of the most intimidating obstacles I encountered was establishing friendships. If you’re an incoming student, this may be one of your primary concerns as well. On my very first day in student housing, just before classes commenced, I spent the entire day secluded in my room, far too nervous to go out and introduce myself. Fast forward to the present, and I can confidently assert that I’ve formed some of the greatest friendships of my life.
The pivotal moment arrived when I chose to take gradual steps—beginning with light conversation with others who felt just as anxious as I did. As time went on, I established a second family here at Imperial, both in my program and beyond.
So, what did I discover? The essential part is to make that first move, even if it feels awkward. If you’re not ready immediately, don’t fret—there will be numerous icebreaker activities and chances to meet new people. Most importantly, stay true to yourself. With such a vibrant community at Imperial, you’re sure to find individuals who resonate with your interests and values.
### Navigating the Academic Shift
Another considerable challenge was adapting to the increased workload and the heightened difficulty of the material. The transition from A-levels to university was stark, and the shift from the first term to the second felt even more intense. It’s easy to become overwhelmed or question your capabilities, especially when you observe others studying and wonder if you’re keeping pace.
What aided me during these instances was the understanding that everyone is experiencing similar challenges. If you’re struggling with a concept, it’s likely that others are too. The wisest course of action is to seek assistance—whether from your classmates or the faculty. Learning to ask for help may well be the most crucial skill to cultivate in your first year.
### The Remarkable Staff
Regarding staff, I can’t stress enough the excellence of the Materials department. The lecturers and tutors genuinely care about your success and understand the obstacles students encounter. They are empathetic and maintain open lines of communication throughout the year to address any issues.
Although I didn’t fully leverage the pastoral support until later in the year, I regret not doing so earlier. Early on, I made a bold move by becoming a year well-being representative, which enabled me to forge connections with staff members. This proved to be invaluable. There are numerous ways to engage with staff, and doing so can significantly enhance your university experience. My most significant insight? Take full advantage of the support offered to you—you can never have too much assistance.
### Insights Gained
Reflecting back, this year has shown me that the apprehension I felt—both prior to starting university and during my time here—was often unwarranted. With the abundance of support from faculty and fellow students, I was never genuinely alone. I’ve learned how to balance the pressure from exams and deadlines while still enjoying moments of fun.
In conclusion, my first year in Materials Science and Engineering has been a transformative journey. It’s been a path of development, resilience, and connection, and I look forward to what the future has in store.
*By [Guest Blogger](https://blogs.imperial.ac.uk/student-blogs/author/bloggers/)*
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