**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 found myself engulfed in nervousness, fear, and uncertainty about what was to come. I was on the brink of beginning 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 shy and introverted, stepping into the unknown felt daunting. Now, as I reflect on this past academic year, I recognize it as a time of significant personal development, challenges, and a lot of enjoyment. So, what have I discovered, and where do I find myself today?
### Conquering the Fear of Forming Friendships
One of the most intimidating obstacles I encountered was making friends. Beginning university can be overwhelming, and if you’re a prospective student reading this, it’s likely a concern for you as well. On my very first day moving into my accommodation, just days before the term commenced, I spent an entire day cloistered in my room, too anxious to venture out and meet anyone.
Fast forward to now, and I can assertively say I’ve formed some of the best friendships I’ve ever had. The individuals I’ve connected with here feel like my second family. All it took was a little small talk with others in similar situations.
So, what was my takeaway? The secret is to take a bold step early on. Even if you don’t feel prepared, there will be plenty of icebreaker events and chances to meet others. Most importantly, remain authentic. With such a diverse group of people at Imperial, you’ll undoubtedly find those who resonate with you.
### Navigating the Academic Shift
Another major challenge was adapting to the rigorous workload and the heightened difficulty of the material. The transition from A-levels to university was stark, and the leap from the first term to the second was even more demanding. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed or question your capabilities when you observe others studying and wonder if you’re up to par.
What assisted me through this was the understanding that everyone is experiencing similar struggles. If something is unclear to you, it’s likely that others are grappling with the same issue. The most vital lesson I learned in my first year was the importance of asking for assistance. Whether from peers or faculty, reaching out is essential.
### The Supportive Faculty
Speaking of faculty, the Materials department at Imperial is outstanding. The lecturers and tutors are genuinely invested in your success and are understanding of the challenges students face. They maintain open lines of communication throughout the year and are always available to address any issues.
Though I didn’t fully take advantage of the pastoral support until the latter part of the year, I wish I had utilized it earlier. At the beginning of the year, I made a concerted effort by becoming a year well-being representative. This position enabled me to cultivate relationships with staff members, which proved to be invaluable. There are numerous ways to engage with faculty, and doing so can significantly enhance your university experience. My most significant lesson? Utilize the support available to you—there’s no such thing as too much help.
### Final Thoughts
Reflecting on this year, I’ve discovered that the anxiety I experienced before and during university was often misplaced. With the abundance of support from faculty and fellow students, those feelings can be alleviated. I’ve realized that I’m never truly alone and that it’s absolutely possible to relish university life even amid the pressures of exams and deadlines.
This first year has been a transformative experience, and I’m eager to see what lies ahead as I continue my studies in Materials Science and Engineering.
*By [Guest Blogger](https://blogs.imperial.ac.uk/student-blogs/author/bloggers/)*
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