**Reflections on My Initial Year in Materials Science and Engineering**
*Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)*
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, uncertainty, and self-doubt as I geared up for my journey 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). As someone who has always been timid and reserved, plunging into this new chapter felt incredibly daunting. Reflecting on the past year, I recognize it has been a transformative experience—one marked by personal growth, various challenges, and countless unforgettable moments. So, what insights have I gained, and where do I find myself today?
### Taking the Plunge: Forming Friendships
One of the most daunting obstacles I encountered at the outset was the task of forging friendships. For numerous prospective students, this stands as a significant source of apprehension, and I was no different. On my initial day in student housing, just days before the term officially kicked off, I spent the entire day sequestered in my room, far too anxious to venture out and meet others. Fast forward to the present, and I can assert with confidence that I’ve formed some of the most meaningful friendships of my life.
At Imperial, I’ve discovered a second family—friends who have enriched this journey immensely. All it required was stepping outside my comfort zone and initiating brief conversations with others who were similarly situated. My greatest lesson? Take that plunge early. Even if you’re not feeling prepared, there will be ample icebreaker events and chances to mingle with others. And above all, simply be yourself. With the vibrant and diverse community at Imperial, you’re sure to find kindred spirits who resonate with your interests and values.
### Confronting the Academic Hurdles
Another major challenge was adapting to the demands of the workload and the heightened complexity of the course material. The shift from A-levels to university was stark, and the transition from the first to the second term felt even more pronounced. It’s easy to feel inundated or to question your potential when surrounded by high-performing peers.
What aided me in navigating these feelings was the understanding that everyone is experiencing similar challenges. If you’re grappling with a concept, it’s likely that others are too. The essential strategy is to seek assistance—whether from your classmates or the teaching staff. This became my most crucial takeaway during my inaugural year: don’t hesitate to ask for help.
### The Encouraging Faculty
Speaking of assistance, the faculty in the Materials department has been nothing short of exceptional. They genuinely wish for their students to thrive and are understanding of the challenges we encounter. Throughout the year, they maintained open lines of communication, addressing our inquiries and providing guidance.
Although I didn’t fully leverage the pastoral support offered until late in the year, I regret not doing so sooner. One of the best choices I made was becoming a year well-being representative. This position enabled me to cultivate relationships with faculty members, which proved to be immensely valuable. There are numerous opportunities to connect with staff, and doing so can lead to significant benefits. My suggestion? Make the most of the resources and support networks at your disposal—there’s no such thing as too much support.
### Valuable Insights
Reflecting on my first year, I’ve realized that many of the fears and worries I harbored—both prior to and during my time at university—were unfounded. With the abundant support from both staff and fellow students, I was never truly isolated. This year has equipped me with the ability to balance exam stress and deadlines alongside joyful experiences and fun moments.
In essence, my first year at Imperial has been a journey of growth, resilience, and exploration. To anyone getting ready to embark on their own university journey: take the plunge, welcome the challenges, and don’t shy away from seeking help. You’ve got this!
*By [Guest Blogger](https://blogs.imperial.ac.uk/student-blogs/author/bloggers/)*
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