**Thoughts on My Initial Year in Materials Science and Engineering**
*By Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)*
Ten months back, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, fear, and uncertainty about what lay ahead. I was on the verge of beginning 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. As someone who has always been introverted and reserved, plunging into this new chapter felt daunting. Now, as I reflect upon an academic year filled with development, challenges, and abundant joy, I can assertively say it’s been a life-changing journey. But what insights have I gained, and where do I find myself now?
### Conquering the Anxiety of Making Connections
One of the most daunting obstacles I encountered at the onset of university was forming friendships. For many incoming students, this is typically one of the largest worries, and I was no different. On my initial day in student housing, just days before classes commenced, I spent the whole day sequestered in my room, too anxious to venture out and introduce myself to others.
Fast forward to the present, and I can boast of having forged some of the closest friendships I’ve ever experienced. These bonds have turned into a second family, both in my course and across the campus. What was the key? Taking that first courageous step to interact with others. Even if it’s merely casual conversation, engaging with individuals who are navigating the same experiences can cultivate remarkable friendships.
If this is your concern, don’t worry—numerous icebreaker activities and chances to meet new people are available throughout the year. The crucial takeaway? Just be yourself. With such a varied community at Imperial, you’re sure to encounter individuals who resonate with your interests and values.
### Navigating the Academic Shift
Another significant challenge was adapting to the workload and the heightened complexity of the material. The transition from A-levels to university was considerable, and the shift from the first term to the second felt even more pronounced. It’s natural to feel overwhelmed or question your abilities when observing others studying and pondering whether you measure up.
What assisted me in pushing forward was the acknowledgment that I wasn’t alone. Everyone faces difficulties at some point, and if you’re struggling with a concept, it’s likely others are as well. The most vital lesson I learned was the importance of seeking assistance. Whether it’s from classmates or faculty members, reaching out for help can be a game-changer.
### Assistance from the Materials Department
On the topic of support, the personnel in the Materials Science and Engineering department are truly exceptional. They genuinely care about students’ success and understand the hurdles we encounter. Throughout the year, they kept lines of communication open and provided numerous forms of pastoral support.
Although I didn’t fully tap into the pastoral resources until the year was nearly over, I wish I had started earlier. Stepping into the role of a year well-being representative was one of the proactive choices I made early on, and it proved to be a brilliant decision. It helped me foster relationships with staff members, which became invaluable. There are countless methods to connect with your lecturers and tutors, and doing so can significantly enrich your university experience. My suggestion? Make full use of the support that’s available to you—you can never have too much assistance!
### Insights Gained
Looking back on my first year, I’ve come to realize that the anxiety I experienced before starting university—and even throughout the year—was often unwarranted. With myriad support systems in place, from staff to fellow students, I was never genuinely alone. This year has instructed me on how to balance stress from exams and deadlines with moments of enjoyment and fun.
To anyone preparing to commence their university adventure: embrace the obstacles, take those bold leaps, and remember that assistance is always accessible.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorised under: Uncategorised*
*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/)*