**Reflections on My Initial Year: Development, Hurdles, and Insights Gained**
*Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)*
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, fear, and uncertainty about what was to come. I was about to begin 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. For someone who had always been introverted and quiet, plunging into this new phase felt intimidating. Reflecting on it now, I recognize a year that has been eye-opening—one brimming with personal development, obstacles, and an array of unforgettable experiences. So, what insights have I gained, and what is my current standing?
### Conquering the Anxiety of Making Friends
One of the most daunting parts of beginning university was the idea of forging friendships. If you’re a future student reading this, you might relate. On my first day in student housing, just days before the term officially started, I spent the whole day retreating to my room, too anxious to go out and meet anyone. Fast forward to now, and I can proudly say I’ve formed some of the best friendships I’ve ever known—individuals who feel like family.
The pivotal moment? Taking a risk and initiating simple conversations with others who were just as new and apprehensive as I was. I discovered that making that first move is always worthwhile, even if it feels awkward. And if you’re not quite prepared at the outset, have no fear—there are numerous icebreaker events and chances to connect. Above all, I realized that being authentic is the most effective strategy. With such a varied community at Imperial, you’re bound to find people who resonate with your interests and principles.
### Adjusting to the Academic Shift
Another major hurdle was adapting to the academic load and the heightened complexity of the course content. The transition from A-levels to university was significant, and the shift from the first term to the second felt even steeper. It’s easy to become overwhelmed or question your own capabilities when you perceive others seemingly excelling.
What assisted me was the understanding that everyone is navigating similar challenges. If you’re having difficulty grasping a concept, there’s a good chance others are too. The essential takeaway is to seek assistance—whether it’s from classmates or faculty. This perhaps stands out as the most crucial lesson I learned in my first year: don’t hesitate to seek support.
### Cultivating Connections with Supportive Faculty
On the topic of support, the faculty in the Materials department are outstanding. They truly care about students’ success and are understanding of the challenges we encounter. Throughout the year, they kept lines of communication open to address our concerns.
Although I didn’t fully leverage the pastoral support offered until later in the year, I wish I had embraced it sooner. Early on, I took a courageous step by becoming a well-being representative for my year, which helped me build connections with staff members. This turned out to be an invaluable opportunity. There are many avenues to connect with faculty, and doing so can significantly enhance your university experience. My major takeaway? Make the most of the resources and support systems at your disposal—you can never have too much assistance!
### Lessons for the Future
Reflecting on the past year, I’ve come to understand that the anxiety I experienced—both prior to starting university and throughout the year—was often unfounded. With the extensive support available from staff and fellow students, I was never truly alone. I’ve also learned how to juggle the stress of exams and deadlines with moments of enjoyment and fun.
This year has been a journey of transformation, and I’m thankful for the myriad challenges and opportunities that have shaped who I am. For anyone about to embark on their own university journey, my advice is straightforward: take the plunge, seek assistance, and fully engage with the experience.
*By [Guest Blogger](https://blogs.imperial.ac.uk/student-blogs/author/bloggers/)*
*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/)*