**Reflecting on My Initial Year in Materials Science and Engineering**
*Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)*
Ten months back, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, fear, and uncertainty about the future. 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. As a person who had always been somewhat reserved, plunging into this new phase was well outside my comfort zone. Reflecting now, I realize that this academic year has been one of significant personal development, obstacles, and a lot of enjoyment! So, what exactly have I gained from this year, and where do I currently stand?
### Conquering the Anxiety of Forming Friendships
One of the earliest and most daunting hurdles I encountered was forging friendships. If you’re a prospective student perusing this, it’s likely one of your biggest concerns as well. On the day I moved into my accommodation, just days before classes started, I spent the entire day sequestered in my room, too anxious to venture out and meet others. Fast forward to now, and I can proudly say that I’ve formed some of the best friendships I’ve ever had, both within my course and throughout the university. I’ve discovered a second family here at Imperial, and it all began with simple conversations with individuals who were experiencing the same feelings.
So, what did I take away from this? I realized that taking that first step is always worthwhile. If you don’t feel prepared or at ease right from the start, it’s perfectly okay! There will be numerous ice-breakers and events planned specifically to assist you in connecting with others. Most importantly, I discovered that being your true self is essential. With such a diverse crowd across the course and the university, you’re bound to encounter others who resonate with your interests and values.
### Addressing the Academic Load
Another significant challenge was acclimating to the academic workload and the heightened complexity of the material. There was undoubtedly a clear increase from A-levels, and the shift from the first term to the second proved even more demanding. Experiencing such a transition can sometimes undermine your confidence, particularly when you notice others studying diligently and feel as though you’re lagging behind. Nevertheless, one thing that supported me was the reassurance that everyone is tackling similar challenges. If you’re finding something difficult to comprehend, it’s likely that your peers are having the same struggle. So, don’t shy away from seeking assistance. This could be the most crucial lesson I learned throughout my first year—reach out to your classmates and the teaching staff when you require support!
### The Value of Support and Engagement with Staff
Regarding staff interactions, the backing from the Materials department has been exceptional. The lecturers and tutors are genuinely invested in your success and are aware of the difficulties that students encounter. They show empathy and maintain open lines of communication throughout the academic year to address any issues. Unfortunately, I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support until later in the year, and I regret not having done so earlier.
At the beginning of the year, I took a bold step by becoming a year well-being representative. This position helped me connect with the staff on a more personal level, which has proved to be enormously beneficial. There are numerous approaches to engage with staff, and doing so can significantly enrich your university experience. My primary lesson from this facet of university life is to fully embrace the support that’s accessible to you. You can never have too much assistance!
### Concluding Thoughts
In summary, this year has shown me that the apprehension I experienced before embarking on my university journey—and even during the year—was often unfounded. There are a multitude of support mechanisms at your disposal, from faculty to fellow students, to help you navigate any obstacles. I’ve come to understand that I’m never truly alone, and I’ve also learned how to strike a balance between having fun and managing the inevitable pressures of exams and deadlines.
By [Guest Blogger](https://blogs.imperial.ac.uk/student-blogs/author/bloggers/)
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