**Reflections on My Initial Year in Materials Science and Engineering**
*By Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)*
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, uncertainty, and hesitation regarding what lay ahead. 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 quiet, plunging into this new phase felt daunting. Now, reflecting on the previous academic year, I recognize it as a time of significant personal development, obstacles, and numerous unforgettable experiences. So, what have I gained from this year, and how do I feel today?
### Conquering the Fear of Friendship
One of the most intimidating obstacles I encountered early on was the challenge of making friends. This is a primary concern for many new students entering university—and I was no different. On my initial day in student housing, mere days before classes commenced, I spent an entire day sequestered in my room, too apprehensive to venture out and meet others.
Fast forward to now, and I can proudly say I’ve formed some of the closest friendships I’ve ever experienced. Here at Imperial, I’ve discovered a second family, not just within my course, but also throughout the university. It merely required stepping outside my comfort zone and initiating casual conversations with individuals who were just as apprehensive as I was.
What did I take away from this experience? Taking a leap of faith at the beginning of the academic year is invariably rewarding. If you don’t feel ready or comfortable immediately, don’t panic—numerous icebreaker events and opportunities to engage with others are available. Most crucially, I learned to embrace my authentic self. With such a varied community at Imperial, you are sure to find others who resonate with your interests and principles.
### Navigating the Academic Shift
Another major challenge was adapting to the workload and the heightened complexity of the material. The transition from A-levels to university was quite significant, and the shift from the first term to the second felt even more formidable. It’s easy to become overwhelmed or second-guess your abilities when surrounded by high-achieving classmates.
What supported me during this time was the understanding that everyone is experiencing similar struggles. If you’re finding something difficult to grasp, it’s likely that others are as well. The key lies in seeking assistance—whether it’s from classmates or teaching staff. Learning to look for support is arguably the most essential skill to cultivate during your initial year.
### The Value of Supportive Staff
In terms of support, the staff within the Materials department are outstanding. They sincerely desire for students to thrive and are understanding of the hurdles we encounter. Throughout the year, they fostered open dialogue with us, addressing our issues and providing direction.
Although I didn’t fully engage with the pastoral support resources until later in the year, I wish I had initiated that sooner. One of the best choices I made was becoming a year well-being representative. This position enabled me to form connections with staff members, which turned out to be invaluable. There are numerous ways to connect with staff, and doing so can significantly enrich your university experience. My most significant lesson? Utilize the support systems at your disposal—you can never have too much assistance!
### Insights Gained
Reflecting on the year, it has become clear to me that the trepidation I experienced—both before beginning university and throughout the year—was frequently unwarranted. With a wide array of support systems accessible from both staff and fellow students, I was never genuinely isolated. I’ve learned how to manage the stress from exams and deadlines while also cherishing moments of joy and fun.
As I look ahead, I’m eager to keep evolving, learning, and maximizing my experience at Imperial. To anyone about to commence their own university journey: take the plunge, welcome the challenges, and have faith that you will find your community.
*By Guest Blogger*
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