**Thoughts 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 enveloped in anxiety, fear, and uncertainty about what was to come. I was on the brink of starting my adventure as a first-year scholar 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, venturing into the unknown felt like a monumental task. Now, as I reflect on the last academic year, I recognize a time of significant personal development, hurdles, and countless joyful moments. So, what insights have I gained, and what is my current standing?
### Conquering the Anxiety of Making Connections
One of the most intimidating obstacles I encountered was forming friendships. If you’re an incoming student reading this, you might share the same feelings of unease. On my inaugural day in student accommodation, just before the term commenced, I spent all day secluded in my room, too frightened to venture out and introduce myself. Fast forward to now, and I can proudly say that I’ve developed some of the most meaningful friendships of my life.
These relationships resemble a second family, starting from light conversations and shared experiences. What I realized is that taking that first step—regardless of how daunting it seems—is worth it. If you’re not prepared to jump in immediately, that’s perfectly fine! Universities, including Imperial, host numerous icebreaker events and chances to connect with others. Most importantly, remain authentic. With a multitude of diverse individuals around you, you’re sure to find those who resonate with your interests and principles.
### Addressing Academic Hurdles
Adapting to the academic demands and the heightened complexity of university-level material presented another challenge. The transition from A-levels to university was substantial, and the shift from the first to the second term was even more formidable. It’s easy to feel inundated or doubt your capabilities, especially when observing peers who appear to have everything under control.
What aided me in navigating this was the understanding that everyone is facing similar struggles. If you’re grappling with a topic, it’s likely that others are too. The important thing is to seek assistance—whether from classmates or instructors. Learning to reach out for help is one of the most valuable lessons I embraced during my first year.
### The Encouraging Materials Science Community
A highlight of my experience has been the remarkable support from the Materials Science department. The faculty genuinely wish for students to thrive and are attuned to the difficulties we encounter. They maintain open lines of communication with students throughout the year, addressing issues and providing counsel.
Though I didn’t fully tap into the pastoral support available to me until the end of the year, I wish I had engaged with it earlier. Early in the term, I took a bold step to become a year well-being representative. This position enabled me to forge connections with staff, which turned out to be invaluable. There are numerous avenues to cultivate relationships with the faculty, and doing so can significantly enrich your university experience. My main takeaway? Make the most of the resources and support at your disposal—you can never have too much assistance!
### Insights Gained
As I reflect on my first year, I’ve come to realize that many of the anxieties and fears I harbored—both prior to and during university—were unfounded. With the abundant support from faculty and fellow students, I was never truly isolated. I’ve also learned how to manage the stress of exams and deadlines while savoring moments of enjoyment and fun.
This year has been a transformative experience, and I’m thankful for the challenges and growth it brought. If you’re on the verge of commencing your own university journey, remember that feeling apprehensive is perfectly normal—but also understand that you’re entering a space brimming with opportunities, support, and the potential for lifelong friendships.
*By [Guest Blogger](https://blogs.imperial.ac.uk/student-blogs/author/bloggers/)*
*Categorised under: Uncategorised*
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