**Reflections on My Initial Year in Materials Science and Engineering**
*Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)*
Ten months prior, in October 2022, I was consumed by anxiety, fear, and uncertainty about the journey ahead. I was about to start 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 quiet, plunging into this new phase felt daunting. Reflecting now, I see a year filled not just with trials but also personal development, self-exploration, and a lot of enjoyment. So, what insights have I gained from this journey, and where am I now?
### Conquering the Anxiety of Making Connections
One of the most daunting obstacles I encountered at the beginning of university was developing friendships. If you’re an incoming student reading this, you might resonate with that concern. On my first day in the halls, just before the semester kicked off, I spent the entire day confined to my room, too apprehensive to branch out and meet others. Fast forward to now, and I can proudly say that I have formed some of the most meaningful friendships I could have ever wished for—friends who feel like an extended family.
What contributed to this shift? It was simply initiating brief conversations with others who were experiencing similar feelings. I came to understand that taking that first step is essential. If you don’t feel prepared immediately, there’s no need to stress—there are countless icebreaker activities and chances to meet others. Most importantly, I learned that the most genuine connections are made when you are true to yourself. With such a varied community at Imperial, you’re sure to find individuals who align with your interests and beliefs.
### Navigating the Academic Shift
Another significant challenge was adjusting to the increased academic load and the complexity of the coursework. The leap from A-levels to university was substantial, and the shift from the first term to the second felt even more intense. It’s natural to feel inundated or question your capabilities when you observe others studying and wonder if you’re on track.
What assisted me in managing this was the realization that everyone is experiencing the same challenges. If you’re having difficulty grasping a concept, likely, others are as well. The secret is to seek assistance—be it from classmates or faculty. This was possibly the most crucial lesson I internalized during my first year: never hesitate to ask for help.
### The Value of Supportive Faculty
On the topic of support, the personnel in the Materials Science department are outstanding. They genuinely care about students’ success and show understanding of the struggles we encounter. Throughout the year, they kept open lines of communication, addressing our worries and providing guidance.
Even though I didn’t fully engage with the pastoral resources until later in the year, I regret not doing so earlier. Initially, I took the plunge by becoming a year well-being representative, a position that allowed me to foster connections with faculty members. This proved to be an invaluable experience. There are numerous ways to engage with staff, and doing so can greatly enhance your university journey. My key takeaway? Make the most of the resources and assistance available—you can never have too much support.
### Key Takeaways
Reflecting on my first year, I’ve come to recognize that the anxiety I experienced—both before starting university and throughout the year—was often misplaced. Given the wide array of support available from staff and fellow students, I was seldom truly alone. This year has taught me how to balance the stress of examinations and deadlines with moments of joy and excitement.
Ultimately, university is a path of growth, and while obstacles are unavoidable, they also present opportunities to learn and flourish. If you’re about to embark on your own adventure, remember to embrace that leap, stay true to yourself, and don’t hesitate to reach out for help. You’ve got this!
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*By [Guest Blogger](https://blogs.imperial.ac.uk/student-blogs/author/bloggers/)*
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