**Reflections on My Initial Year in Materials Science and Engineering**
*Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)*
Approximately ten months ago, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, fear, and uncertainty about what awaited me. I was on the verge of starting my experience 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 kept to themselves and been introverted, venturing into the unfamiliar appeared daunting. Now, reflecting on the past academic year, I recognize it as a time of significant personal development, obstacles, and remarkable experiences. What insights have I gained, and what is my current standing?
### Conquering the Anxiety of Making Connections
One of the most daunting obstacles I encountered was forging friendships. Beginning university can feel overwhelming, and if you’re an incoming student reading this, it might resonate as one of your largest apprehensions as well. On my first day moving into my dorm, I spent the entire day sequestered in my room, too anxious to venture outside and introduce myself. Fast forward to now, and I can assertively say that I’ve cultivated some of the greatest friendships I have ever known.
At Imperial, I’ve discovered a second family—companions who often share my experiences and provide support. All it required was to step outside my comfort zone and initiate brief conversations with others who were feeling just as apprehensive as I was. My foremost lesson? Take the plunge early on. If you’re feeling unprepared or ill-at-ease, don’t fret—there will be an abundance of icebreaker events and chances to engage with others. Most importantly, stay true to yourself. With such a varied community at Imperial, you’re sure to encounter individuals who align with your interests and principles.
### Navigating the Academic Transition
Another considerable challenge was adapting to both the workload and the intricacies of the course content. The transition from A-levels to university was stark, and the shift from the first term to the second was even more pronounced. It’s easy to feel inundated or second-guess your capabilities in the company of high-performing peers.
What aided me most was the realization that everyone is navigating similar waters. If you’re finding it hard to grasp a concept, chances are others are experiencing the same struggle. The secret is to reach out for assistance—whether from your classmates or the teaching faculty. Learning to ask for help is arguably the most crucial skill to cultivate in your first year.
### The Importance of Supportive Personnel
On the topic of support, the staff within the Materials department have been outstanding. They genuinely desire for students to thrive and are understanding of the challenges we confront. Throughout the year, they kept lines of communication open, addressing our concerns and offering direction.
Although I didn’t fully take advantage of the pastoral support available until the year’s end, I wish I had engaged with it earlier. Embracing the role of a year well-being representative was another significant step for me, and it ultimately proved to be a gratifying experience. It enabled me to forge connections with staff members, which became invaluable. Through either formal roles or informal chats, becoming acquainted with your lecturers and support staff can create a substantial impact. My suggestion? Utilize the resources and assistance available to you—you can never have an excess of support!
### Insights Gained
This year has revealed to me that the anxiety I felt prior to beginning university—and even throughout the year—was frequently unwarranted. With the extensive support accessible from staff and fellow students, I’ve learned that I’m never genuinely isolated. More significantly, I’ve realized how to harmonize the stress of exams and deadlines with moments of happiness and enjoyment.
In hindsight, I recognize how far I’ve progressed since that anxious freshman tucked away in their dorm. University is an evolution of growth, and while the challenges may initially appear formidable, they clear the path for extraordinary experiences and personal advancement.
*By [Guest Blogger](https://blogs.imperial.ac.uk/student-blogs/author/bloggers/)*
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