### Insights from My Initial Year in Materials Science and Engineering
*By Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)*
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Ten months ago, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with nerves, uncertainty, and a lack of confidence as I geared up for 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). Being an inherently shy person, the thought of diving into university life was quite intimidating. Now, as I reflect on a year of academic growth, challenges, and memorable experiences, I can wholeheartedly affirm that it was a life-changing journey. But what did this year teach me, and where do I stand now?
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### Conquering the Anxiety of Making Friends
One of the most daunting obstacles I encountered was the quest to make friends. For many incoming students, this concern looms large, and I was no exception. On my first day at the student residence, just before classes started, I spent the entire day tucked away in my room, hesitant to go out and introduce myself. Fast forward to now, and I’m thrilled to say I’ve formed some of the greatest friendships I could have hoped for—friends who have become like a second family.
So, what was the turning point? It all began with taking small steps: engaging in casual conversations with others who were just as new and uncertain as I was. I learned that it is vital to take a risk early on. If you don’t feel ready right away, that’s perfectly fine—throughout the academic year, numerous ice-breaker events and chances to socialize await. Most importantly, I realized that being authentic is key. With such a diverse population at Imperial, you’re likely to encounter those who share your interests and values.
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### Navigating the Academic Shift
Another major challenge I faced was adapting to the heightened workload and the intricate course content. The transition from A-levels to university was quite significant, and the leap from the first term to the second felt even more pronounced. It’s common to feel overwhelmed or question your capabilities, especially when observing others study and thrive. However, one enlightening realization empowered me to persevere: everyone is facing similar struggles. If you’re having trouble grasping a concept, there’s a good chance others are too.
The most crucial lesson I absorbed was the importance of seeking assistance. Whether from classmates or faculty, obtaining support is vital. No one anticipates you to know everything, and teamwork is a fundamental aspect of the educational journey.
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### Fostering Relationships with Staff
On the topic of support, the staff in the Materials department are truly exceptional. They have a genuine desire to see students succeed and understand the challenges we confront. Throughout the year, they kept communication channels open, addressing our issues and providing guidance. Although I didn’t take full advantage of the pastoral support until later in the year, I do wish I had reached out sooner.
At the beginning of the year, I took a bold step by becoming a year well-being representative. This position enabled me to establish connections with staff members, which turned out to be an invaluable opportunity. There are numerous avenues to cultivate relationships with staff, and doing so can significantly enhance your university experience. My most important takeaway? Utilize the resources and support available to you—you can never have too much assistance.
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### Reflections and Future Aspirations
Looking back on my first year, I’ve come to realize that much of the anxiety I felt prior to and during the year was often unnecessary. With the extensive support systems provided by both staff and peers, I was never truly alone. This year has taught me how to manage stress from exams and timelines while also savoring moments of joy and fulfillment. Most importantly, it highlighted how much I’ve developed, both academically and personally.
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By facing challenges head-on, asking for help when necessary, and remaining true to myself, I’ve maximized my first year at Imperial. To any future students who may be reading this: take that leap, have faith in the process, and remember—you are never alone on this journey.
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*By [Guest Blogger](https://blogs.imperial.ac.uk/student-blogs/author/bloggers/)*
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