**Reflections 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, apprehension, and uncertainty about what was forthcoming. I was on the brink of embarking on my journey as a freshman 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 quiet and introverted, immersing myself in this new experience felt quite intimidating. Now, reflecting on this past academic year, I recognize it as a time of significant personal development, obstacles, and numerous unforgettable experiences. So, what have I gained from this year, and where do I find myself now?
### Conquering the Anxiety of Forming Friendships
One of the most daunting elements of starting university was the prospect of making friends. If you’re a prospective student reading this, it’s likely a concern of yours too. On my first day in university housing, a few days prior to the official start of classes, I spent the whole day secluded in my room, too anxious to venture out and meet others. Fast forward to today, and I can proudly say that I’ve forged some of the most meaningful friendships I’ve ever had—friends who feel like a second family.
How did this change come about? It began with taking small steps, like sparking casual conversations with others who were feeling similarly. I learned that it’s essential to take a leap of faith early on. If you’re not quite ready at the outset, don’t fret—there will be plenty of icebreaker events and chances to engage with fellow students. Most importantly, I recognized the significance of being my authentic self. With such a diverse group of individuals at Imperial, you’re bound to encounter those who resonate with your interests and values.
### Addressing the Academic Challenges
Another major challenge was adapting to the increased workload and the heightened complexity of the subjects. 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 question your abilities when you observe others studying and feel as though you’re lagging behind.
What aided me in overcoming this was realizing that I wasn’t the only one facing these hurdles. Everyone was grappling with the same issues, and if I didn’t grasp something, the likelihood was others were struggling too. The pivotal lesson here was to seek assistance—whether from classmates or instructors. This straightforward gesture of reaching out can significantly impact your experience, and it’s one of the most vital skills to foster in your initial year.
### The Supportive Faculty
Speaking of faculty, the Materials Science department at Imperial is remarkable. The lecturers and tutors truly want students to thrive and are compassionate towards the difficulties we encounter. They maintain transparent lines of communication throughout the year, addressing student queries and offering assistance.
Although I didn’t fully harness the pastoral support until the latter part of the year, I wish I had embraced it earlier. At the beginning of the year, I took a bold step by becoming a year well-being representative, which enabled me to forge connections with faculty members. This proved to be invaluable. There are various avenues to engage with staff, and doing so can greatly enrich your university experience. My primary takeaway? Utilize the support accessible to you—you can never have too much help!
### Lessons Gained
In retrospect, this year has shown me that the apprehension I experienced before and during university was often misplaced. With a broad array of support resources available—from faculty to fellow students—help is always close at hand. I’ve learned that I’m never entirely alone and that it’s possible to relish university life even amidst the stresses of examinations and deadlines.
This year has been a journey full of growth, resilience, and joy, and I’m eager to discover what the next chapter brings.
*By [Guest Blogger](https://blogs.imperial.ac.uk/student-blogs/author/bloggers/)*
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