**Reflections on My Inaugural Year in Materials Science and Engineering**
*By Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)*
Ten months back, in October 2022, I was brimming with anxious excitement as I geared up to embark on 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. Being naturally shy and reserved, venturing into the unknown felt quite daunting. However, as I reflect on the past academic year, I recognize a time of considerable personal development, obstacles, and memorable experiences. So, what insights have I gained, and how am I positioned today?
### Confronting the Challenge of Forming Friendships
One of the most daunting aspects of commencing university was the challenge of forming friendships. If you’re a potential student reading this, it’s probably a concern for you as well. I distinctly recall my first day settling into accommodation—I spent the entire day tucked away in my room, too anxious to venture out and meet others.
Fast forward to now, and I can firmly state that I’ve forged some of the greatest friendships I’ve ever had. The individuals I’ve encountered here have evolved into my second family. It only required stepping outside of my comfort zone and initiating casual conversations with others who were in similar situations.
What have I learned? It’s always beneficial to take a chance at the start of the year. If you aren’t quite ready or comfortable immediately, there’s no need to fret—ample icebreaker events and chances to connect with people are available. Most importantly, just be true to yourself. With such a varied community at Imperial, you are sure to encounter individuals who resonate with your interests and principles.
### Navigating the Academic Shift
Adapting to the workload and the elevated difficulty of the material was another significant hurdle. The transition from A-levels to university was substantial, and the shift from the first term to the second was even more pronounced. It’s easy to feel inundated or doubt your capabilities when you observe others studying and appearing to excel.
What aided me through this was understanding that everyone experiences similar struggles. If you’re unclear about something, there’s a good chance others are too. The essential thing is to seek assistance—be it from your peers or teaching staff. Learning to request help may be the most important skill you can cultivate during your freshman year.
### Assistance from Faculty
Speaking of faculty, I cannot stress enough how remarkable the Materials department team is. They are genuinely invested in student success and understand the challenges we encounter. Throughout the year, they kept the lines of communication open, addressing our issues and providing support.
Although I didn’t take full advantage of the available pastoral support until later in the year, I wish I had engaged with it sooner. Accepting the role of a year well-being representative was one of the first steps I took, and it proved to be an excellent choice. It enabled me to establish meaningful relationships with staff members, which has been invaluable.
If there’s one piece of advice I can offer, it’s to make the most of the support that is provided to you. Whether it’s academic advice, pastoral assistance, or simply getting acquainted with your lecturers, these resources exist to facilitate your success.
### Insights Gained
Reflecting on my first year, I learned that much of the anxiety I experienced—both prior to starting university and throughout the year—was frequently unfounded. With the extensive range of support options available, from faculty to fellow students, I was never genuinely alone.
This year has taught me to welcome challenges, to lean on others when necessary, and to discover joy even amid the stresses of exams and deadlines. It’s been a transformative experience, and I’m eager to see what lies ahead.
*By Dawson La, Guest Blogger*
*Tagged: [Courses](https://blogs.imperial.ac.uk/student-blogs/tag/courses/), [Featured](https://blogs.imperial.ac.uk/student-blogs/tag/featured/), [First Year](https://blogs.imperial.ac.uk/student-blogs/tag/first-year/), [Imperial College London](https://blogs.imperial.ac.uk/student-blogs/tag/imperial-college-london/)*