**Reflections on My Initial Year in Materials Science and Engineering**
*Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)*
A decade ago, in October 2022, I found myself consumed by nerves, anxiety, and uncertainty about what the future held. I was on the brink of beginning 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) at Imperial College London. Being a person who has always leaned towards being introverted, the idea of fully immersing myself in this new phase was intimidating. Now, reflecting on the previous academic year, I recognize a time of significant personal development, obstacles, and a great deal of enjoyment. But what exactly did I gain from this experience, and where do I find myself now?
### Conquering the Anxiety of Making Connections
One of the most daunting challenges I encountered was forming friendships. If you’re a prospective student perusing this, you may very well relate to the same anxieties. On my first day moving into the dorms, just days before classes began, I spent an entire day cooped up in my room, too fearful to venture out and introduce myself. Fast forward to now, and I can proudly state that I’ve forged some of the most meaningful friendships of my life. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, and it all started with some light conversation with others who were feeling the same way.
So, what did I take away from this? I learned that stepping out of your comfort zone at the beginning of the year is always rewarding. If you’re not feeling quite prepared or at ease, fret not—numerous ice-breaker activities and chances to mingle will come your way. Above all, I understood that the best version of you is simply being yourself. With such a diverse group of individuals within the course and the university, you’re bound to encounter those who vibe with you.
### Addressing the Academic Demands
Another challenge I needed to navigate was the academic load and the complexity of the subject matter. There was undoubtedly a significant transition from A-levels, and an even greater leap from the first term to the second. Being thrust into such an environment can occasionally undermine your confidence, particularly when you notice others studying while you feel like you’re lagging. Nevertheless, one thing that encouraged me to persevere was the realization that everyone is experiencing similar challenges. If you stumble over a concept, it’s likely that others are too.
The crucial lesson? Don’t be afraid to seek assistance. This is arguably the most valuable insight I gained during my first year. Whether it’s your classmates or faculty, requesting help is vital in maneuvering through the challenges of university life.
### Assistance from the Faculty
Speaking of faculty, I cannot stress enough how outstanding the Materials department personnel are. They truly want to see you thrive and comprehend the difficulties students encounter. Throughout the year, they kept us in frequent communication, addressing our concerns and providing support. I didn’t fully engage with the pastoral help available until the closing months of the year, but I wish I had taken advantage of it earlier.
At the beginning of the year, I made the decision to become a well-being representative for my cohort. This position allowed me to cultivate a closer relationship with the staff, which proved to be immensely beneficial. There are many avenues to connect with faculty, and I strongly advise pursuing them. My key takeaway from this aspect of university life is to leverage the support available to you—you can never have enough assistance!
### Concluding Thoughts
In summary, this past year has shown me that the apprehensive feelings I experienced prior to and during university were primarily unwarranted. With the extensive support systems in place from both staff and fellow students, I came to realize that I was never isolated in my challenges. Most importantly, I learned how to manage academic pressures, such as exams and deadlines, while also enjoying myself and fully embracing my university journey.
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**By** [Guest Blogger](https://blogs.imperial.ac.uk/student-blogs/author/bloggers/)
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