**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 nerves, apprehension, and self-doubt regarding what was to come. I was on the verge of commencing 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. For someone who had always been introverted and reserved, stepping into the unknown felt like a monumental challenge. Looking back now, I recognize a year that has been transformative—filled with personal development, obstacles, and unforgettable experiences. But what insights have I gained from this journey, and what is my current status?

### Conquering the Anxiety of Making Connections

One of the most intimidating challenges I faced was forming friendships. For many incoming students, this is a primary concern about starting university, and I was no exception. On my first day in the student residence, a few days before the official term began, I spent the entire day secluding myself in my room, feeling too apprehensive to emerge and introduce myself to anyone.

Fast forward to now, and I can confidently assert that I’ve formed some of the best friendships I’ve ever had. The individuals I’ve encountered here have transformed into my second family, and it all began with brief conversations with others who were equally anxious.

What have I learned? Taking that first leap of faith is essential. If you’re not quite ready to jump in right away, don’t fret—there are numerous icebreaker events and chances to engage with others. Most importantly, remain true to yourself. With such a varied mix of individuals at university, you’re destined to connect with those who share your passions and values.

### Navigating the Academic Shift

Another obstacle I faced was adapting to the workload and the heightened complexity of the course material. The transition from A-levels to university was considerable, and moving from the first term to the second proved even more demanding. It’s easy to feel inundated and doubt your capabilities, especially when you observe others studying and assume they’re outperforming you.

What assisted me through this phase was the understanding that everyone is experiencing similar challenges. If you’re having difficulty grasping a concept, the likelihood is that others are too. The key is to reach out for assistance—whether it be from peers or faculty. Learning to seek help is arguably the most crucial skill to cultivate in your initial year.

### Establishing Connections with Supportive Faculty

In terms of support, the faculty in the Materials department are exceptional. They genuinely care about student success and understand the hurdles we encounter. Throughout the year, they maintained clear communication with us, addressing our inquiries and offering guidance.

Though I didn’t fully take advantage of the pastoral support available until late in the year, I wish I had done so earlier. Initially, I made a bold move by becoming a year well-being representative, which allowed me to foster connections with faculty members. This turned out to be an invaluable experience. There are many ways to engage with staff, and doing so can greatly enhance your university experience. My most significant takeaway? Utilize the support systems accessible to you—you can never have too much assistance.

### Insights Gained

Reflecting on the past year, I realize that the anxieties I felt—both before and during university—were frequently unfounded. With the broad array of support options provided by staff and peers, I was never truly isolated. I’ve learned how to manage the stress that comes from exams and deadlines alongside moments of enjoyment and fun.

Ultimately, my first year at Imperial has been a meaningful journey of personal development, resilience, and exploration. If you are about to embark on a similar journey, know that while the challenges may appear daunting, the rewards are undoubtedly worth the effort.

*By [Guest Blogger](https://blogs.imperial.ac.uk/student-blogs/author/bloggers/)*
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