**Thoughts on My Initial Year in Materials Science and Engineering**
*By Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)*
Ten months prior, in October 2022, I was brimming with anxiety, trepidation, and uncertainty regarding what was to come. I was about 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. For someone who had always been introverted and cautious, plunging into this new phase felt daunting. Now, reflecting on the past academic year, I recognize it as a time of significant personal development, obstacles, and remarkable moments. So, what insights has this year provided, and what is my current position?
### Conquering the Anxiety of Friendships
One of the most daunting obstacles I encountered was connecting with others. For numerous incoming students, this is among the primary worries when commencing university, and I was no different. On my first day in student housing, a few days before classes started, I spent the entirety of the day confined to my room, too apprehensive to venture out and introduce myself.
Fast forward to now, I can proudly state that I’ve forged some of the most meaningful friendships of my life. Here at Imperial, I’ve discovered a second family, within both the university and my program. It all initiated with casual conversations and realizing that everyone else was equally apprehensive.
What have I taken away from this? I’ve learned that taking a bold step at the beginning of the year is invariably worthwhile. If you’re not prepared or don’t feel at ease immediately, don’t fret—plenty of icebreaker activities and chances to engage with others exist. Most importantly, I found that authenticity is essential. With such a varied community at Imperial, you are sure to meet people who align with your interests and principles.
### Addressing the Academic Shift
Another major challenge was adapting to the increased workload and the heightened complexity of the course material. The transition from A-levels to university was palpable, and the shift from the first term to the second term felt even more pronounced. It’s easy to feel inundated or uncertain about your capabilities when observing others studying and wondering if you’re lagging behind.
What aided me in navigating this was the understanding that everyone is experiencing similar feelings. If you’re struggling to grasp a concept, it’s highly likely others are doing the same. The key lesson I learned in my first year was the importance of seeking assistance. Whether it’s from classmates or the faculty, reaching out for help can significantly impact your journey.
### The Value of Supportive Faculty
On the topic of support, the faculty in the Materials department are exceptional. They sincerely wish for students to thrive and are compassionate about the obstacles we encounter. Throughout the year, they maintained transparent communication with us and were consistently available to address our concerns.
I didn’t fully leverage the available pastoral support until later in the year, but I regret not doing so sooner. At the year’s start, I took a brave leap by becoming a well-being representative for my class. This position enabled me to cultivate connections with faculty members, which turned out to be incredibly beneficial. There are numerous avenues to engage with faculty, and doing so can significantly enrich your university experience. My foremost takeaway? Make the most of the support systems that are open to you—you can never have too much assistance!
### Insights Gained
In retrospect, this year has taught me that the apprehension I felt before and during university was mostly unfounded. With the abundant support from both the faculty and my fellow students, I came to understand that I was never genuinely alone. I’ve learned how to manage the stress of exams and deadlines while still enjoying life, and I’ve developed in ways I never envisioned.
To anyone preparing to embark on their university adventure: take that leap, welcome the challenges, and don’t hesitate to seek help. You’ll be amazed at your potential and the significant connections you’ll forge along the journey.
*By [Guest Blogger](https://blogs.imperial.ac.uk/student-blogs/author/bloggers/)*
*Categorized 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/)*