**Reflections 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 overwhelmed with anxiety, fear, and uncertainty regarding what lay ahead. I was on the verge of starting 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) at Imperial College London. For someone who had always been timid and introverted, stepping into the unknown felt daunting. Now, reflecting on an academic year characterized by growth, challenges, and happiness, I can appreciate how much I’ve gained and how far I’ve progressed.
### Overcoming the Anxiety of Making Friends
One of the most daunting parts of entering university was forming friendships. If you’re an incoming student, this is likely a major concern for you as well. On my first day in student housing, just days before the term started, I spent the entire day tucked away in my room, too apprehensive to go out and introduce myself. Fast forward to now, and I can proudly say I’ve formed some of the most meaningful friendships I’ve ever experienced.
These relationships feel like a second family, and they all originated from small beginnings—casual chats with others who felt just as anxious as I did. What I’ve discovered is that taking those initial steps is essential. If you’re not prepared immediately, don’t fret! There are numerous icebreaker events and chances to mingle with others. Most importantly, just be yourself. With such a varied community at Imperial, you’re sure to find individuals who resonate with your interests and ideals.
### Confronting the Academic Demands
Adapting to the workload and academic intensity was another major obstacle. The leap from A-levels to university was evident, and the transition from the first term to the second felt even more challenging. It’s easy to feel daunted or question your capabilities when surrounded by peers who excel.
What assisted me the most was the realization that everyone experiences similar challenges. If you’re having trouble grasping a concept, it’s likely that others are too. The crucial point is to seek assistance—whether from your peers or the academic staff. This is perhaps the most significant lesson I gained during my first year: don’t hesitate to ask for help.
### Assistance from the Materials Department
Speaking of assistance, the personnel in the Materials department are remarkable. They truly want students to succeed and are understanding of the obstacles we encounter. Over the year, they kept lines of communication open and provided a wealth of resources to help us excel.
Although I didn’t fully take advantage of pastoral support until later in the year, I wish I had done it sooner. Early on, I made a bold move by becoming a year well-being representative, which allowed me to cultivate connections with staff members. This proved to be an invaluable experience. There are numerous opportunities to engage with staff, and doing so can significantly enhance your university experience. My suggestion? Make thorough use of the support systems at your disposal—you can never have too much assistance!
### Insights Gained
As I look back, this year has shown me that many of the fears I held—both before and during university—were unfounded. With the extensive support provided by both staff and fellow students, I was never genuinely alone. I’ve learned to juggle the pressures from exams and deadlines with moments of joy and fun.
Beginning university is a substantial transition, but it also presents an extraordinary chance for personal development. If you’re about to start this journey, know that it’s completely normal to feel anxious. Take those leaps, welcome the challenges, and remember to lean on the people and resources around you.
—
*By [Guest Blogger](https://blogs.imperial.ac.uk/student-blogs/author/bloggers/)*
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