**Reflections on My First 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 anxiety, fear, and uncertainty regarding the future. I was about to begin 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, plunging into this new chapter felt quite intimidating. Now, as I reflect on an academic year characterized by growth, obstacles, and unforgettable moments, I can assess what I’ve gained and how much I’ve achieved.
### Conquering the Anxiety of Forming Friendships
One of the most daunting facets of starting university was the idea of making new friends. If you’re a prospective student reading this, you might share this concern. On my initial day in student housing, I spent the whole day secluded in my room, too apprehensive to step out and meet others. Fast forward to now, and I can proudly say I’ve formed some of the best friendships I’ve ever known.
The essential element in fostering these relationships was taking small initiatives, such as engaging in light-hearted conversation with individuals in similar situations. Gradually, these exchanges developed into strong friendships, and I now regard my friends here at Imperial as a second family.
So, what did I discover? The most vital takeaway was to make that first move at the onset of the year. Even if you don’t feel prepared, there will be numerous icebreaker activities and chances to connect with others. Above all, just be yourself. With such a diverse community at Imperial, you’re sure to find those who resonate with your interests and values.
### Adapting to the Academic Demands
Another major hurdle was adjusting to the workload and the heightened complexity of the course material. The leap from A-levels to university was evident, and the shift from the first term to the second term felt even more considerable. It’s common to feel overwhelmed and question your abilities, especially when observing others appearing to excel.
What aided me in this process was the understanding that I wasn’t isolated. Everyone faced similar challenges, and if I didn’t grasp something, chances are that others were struggling too. The best advice I can offer is to seek assistance—whether from fellow students or teaching staff. Learning to ask for support is one of the most essential skills you can cultivate in your first year.
### The Significance of Support and Connection
Speaking of support, the faculty in the Materials department has been outstanding. They genuinely wish for students to succeed and understand the hurdles we encounter. Throughout the year, they maintained open communication and were consistently responsive to our concerns.
I didn’t fully leverage the pastoral support services available until the latter part of the year, and I regret not doing so earlier. Engaging with that resource made a notable impact. Early on, I took a bold step by becoming a year well-being representative, which allowed me to connect with staff members more profoundly. Fostering relationships with staff is invaluable, and there are various ways to accomplish this. My most significant takeaway here is to make use of the support systems at your disposal—you can never have too much assistance!
### Lessons Learned
As I reflect on the year, I realize that the anxiety I faced prior to and during university was largely unfounded. With the broad array of support options from both faculty and peers, I was never truly alone. I learned to balance the stress of exams and deadlines with moments of happiness and enjoyment.
Beginning university is undeniably a substantial step, but it also presents an opportunity for tremendous personal development. If you’re on the brink of starting your own adventure, remember to embrace the challenges, seek the support you require, and most importantly, relish the experience.
*By [Guest Blogger](https://blogs.imperial.ac.uk/student-blogs/author/bloggers/)*
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