**Reflections on My Initial Year in Materials Science and Engineering**
*Composed 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 ahead of me. 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 someone who had always been introverted and quiet, venturing into the unknown felt daunting. Now, reflecting on an academic year full of growth, challenges, and memorable experiences, I see just how much I’ve developed and the progress I’ve made.
### Conquering the Anxiety of Forming Friendships
One of the most daunting challenges I encountered was the task of making friends. For many new students, this marks one of the most stressful aspects of beginning university. I can clearly recall my first day settling into my accommodation. I spent that entire day hidden away in my room, too scared to step out and introduce myself to others. Fast forward to today, and I proudly state that I’ve forged some of the best friendships of my life.
The breakthrough occurred when I opted to take small, manageable steps—beginning with light conversation with those who were experiencing the same feelings as me. Gradually, these interactions grew into significant friendships, and I now feel as though I’ve found a second family here at Imperial.
So, what did I take away from this? The secret lies in taking an early leap of faith. If you’re not ready right away, don’t fret—there will be plenty of ice-breaking activities and chances to meet others. Above all, be authentic. With such a varied community at university, you are sure to encounter individuals who resonate with your interests and principles.
### Adjusting to the Academic Shift
Another major hurdle was adapting to the workload and heightened complexity of the material. The transition from A-levels to university was stark, and the shift from the first term to the second term felt even more pronounced. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed or doubt your abilities when observing others studying intensely and succeeding.
What aided me in navigating this experience was the awareness that everyone shares similar challenges. If you’re having trouble grasping a concept, it’s likely that others are as well. The most constructive step you can take is to seek assistance—whether from peers or teaching staff. Learning to ask for help is arguably the most valuable skill to cultivate during your first year.
### The Value of Staff Support
Speaking of support, I cannot stress enough how amazing the staff in the Materials department are. They genuinely care about our success and understand the difficulties we encounter. Throughout the year, they kept open lines of communication with us, addressing our worries and offering guidance.
Although I didn’t fully engage with the pastoral support available until the year’s close, I wish I had taken advantage of it sooner. Stepping into the role of a year well-being representative was one of the bold steps I took early in the year, and it turned out to be immensely fulfilling. It enabled me to form valuable relationships with staff members.
There are numerous ways to connect with staff, and doing so can significantly enhance your university experience. My main takeaway is to utilize the resources and support available—you can never have too much assistance!
### Insights Gained
In retrospect, this year has provided me with invaluable insights. Those anxious feelings I experienced—before starting university and throughout the year—were frequently unfounded. With the vast array of support options provided by staff and fellow students, I realized I was never genuinely alone.
More importantly, I learned how to balance the demands of exams and deadlines while also enjoying myself. University encompasses more than just academics—it’s about personal development, cultivating connections, and creating lasting memories.
As I gear up for my second year, I feel more assured and eager about what lies ahead. To anyone about to embark on their own university journey, my advice is straightforward: take that leap, remain authentic, and don’t hesitate to seek assistance. You can do this!
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*By [Guest Blogger](https://blogs.imperial.ac.uk/student-blogs/author/bloggers/)*
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