**Reflections on My Initial Year in Materials Science and Engineering**
*Written by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)*
Ten months back, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, fear, and uncertainty about what was to come. I was on the verge of starting 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. Having always been a shy individual, stepping into the unfamiliar was a daunting challenge. Now, reflecting on the past academic year, I can observe substantial growth—both in my studies and personal life. It’s been a year characterized by challenges, self-exploration, and numerous enjoyable moments. So, what insights have I gained, and where do I stand now?
### Conquering the Early Anxiety of Making Friends
One of the most anxiety-inducing obstacles I encountered initially was forming friendships. This is a common concern for many incoming students, and I was no different. On my first day settling into student accommodation, just days before the semester commenced, I spent the entire day sequestered in my room, too scared to venture out and meet others. Fast forward to now, and I can proudly say I’ve forged some of the closest friendships I’ve ever known. I’ve discovered a second family here at Imperial, and it all began with stepping outside my comfort zone and engaging in light conversation with others who were feeling just as nervous.
So, what has been my takeaway? I realized that taking that initial leap at the beginning of the year is crucial. If you find yourself feeling unprepared or uneasy, fret not—plenty of icebreakers and social events will present themselves. Above all, I learned that being authentic is essential. With the diverse personalities present at the university, you are bound to connect with your people.
### Navigating the Academic Hurdles
Another major challenge was acclimating to the course’s workload and complexity. There was certainly a visible leap from A-level studies, and the transition from the first term to the second was even more pronounced. Being immersed in such a rigorous academic setting can occasionally undermine your confidence. It’s all too easy to feel inadequate when you observe others grasping concepts or studying faster than you.
What aided me through this was recognizing that everyone shares this experience. If you’re struggling with a concept, there are likely many others who are equally perplexed. The key lesson I absorbed in my first year was the importance of seeking help—whether from fellow students or instructors. Don’t hesitate to ask for assistance when it’s needed.
### The Value of Support from Faculty
On the subject of faculty, the assistance I received from the Materials department was exceptional. The lecturers and tutors genuinely care about your success and understand the difficulties students encounter. They are compassionate and maintain open communication throughout the year to address any issues. I didn’t fully leverage the pastoral support until the conclusion of the year, but I wish I had utilized it earlier.
At the beginning of the year, I took a leap and became a well-being representative for my cohort. This opportunity allowed me to connect with the staff more deeply, which proved to be incredibly beneficial. There are numerous ways to engage with staff members, and I highly encourage doing so. My main takeaway here is to fully utilize the support available to you—you can never have too much assistance!
### Concluding Thoughts
In summary, this year has shown me that the apprehension I felt before and during my university experience was mostly unfounded. Numerous support systems exist, from faculty to fellow students, ensuring that there’s no reason to feel isolated. I’ve learned how to manage the stress of exams and deadlines while still enjoying university life, and I’ve emerged from this year with greater confidence and self-assurance.
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*By [Guest Blogger](https://blogs.imperial.ac.uk/student-blogs/author/bloggers/)*
*Categorised under: Uncategorised*
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