**Insights from My Initial Year in Materials Science and Engineering**
*Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)*
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I experienced a whirlwind of anxiety, apprehension, and doubt about the future. I was on the verge of starting 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 has always been introverted and timid, venturing into the unfamiliar felt daunting. Now, as I reflect, I recognize a year filled with personal development, obstacles, and memorable experiences. So, what insights have I gained, and what is my current state?
### Conquering the Challenge of Forming Friendships
One of the most daunting elements of commencing university was the task of making friends. If you’re an incoming student perusing this, you may share similar concerns. On my first day at the student residence, a few days prior to the start of term, I spent the entire day sequestered in my room, too apprehensive to venture out and meet people. Fast forward to now, and I can assertively say that I’ve forged some of the deepest friendships of my life.
These connections have become akin to a second family for me. All it needed was for me to step outside my comfort zone and initiate brief conversations with individuals in a similar situation. What did I take away from this? The value of that first step is immeasurable. If you’re not quite ready or at ease straight away, don’t worry—numerous icebreaker events and chances to meet others lie ahead. Above all, just remain authentic. With such a diverse student body, you’re sure to find companions who resonate with your interests and values.
### Navigating the Academic Shift
Another critical challenge was adapting to the workload and the heightened complexity of the curriculum. The transformation from A-levels to university was stark, and the shift from the first to the second term felt particularly intense. It’s easy to feel inundated or question your skills when observing others study and assume they’re ahead.
What aided me was the understanding that everyone faces these similar hurdles. If you find it difficult to grasp something, chances are your classmates are too. The essential takeaway is to seek assistance—whether from peers or faculty members. This was possibly the most crucial lesson I gleaned in my first year: don’t hesitate to reach out for help.
### Assistance from the Materials Department
On the topic of support, the personnel in the Materials department are truly outstanding. They sincerely care about student success and understand the difficulties we encounter. Throughout the year, they maintained open lines of communication with us, addressing our worries and providing guidance.
Though I didn’t fully engage with the pastoral support available until the year’s end, I wish I had utilized it earlier. Taking that leap of faith at the year’s start rewarded me in other ways—I became a well-being representative for my year. This position enabled me to cultivate relationships with staff members, which proved to be exceptionally beneficial. There are various avenues to interact with faculty, and doing so can significantly impact your university experience. My key takeaway? Seize the support offered—you can never have too much assistance!
### Insights Gained
This year has enlightened me to the reality that the anxiety I felt—both before beginning university and throughout the year—was often unfounded. With abundant support from staff and fellow students, solitude was never truly an issue. I’ve discovered how to balance the stress from exams and deadlines with moments of joy and pleasure.
Reflecting on the past, I take pride in my progress. Starting university was a venture into the unknown, but it has been a journey of growth, resilience, and connection. If you are about to embark on your own university journey, embrace the obstacles, lean on the support available to you, and don’t forget to savor the experience.
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*By [Guest Blogger](https://blogs.imperial.ac.uk/student-blogs/author/bloggers/)*
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