**Thoughts on My Initial Year in Materials Science and Engineering**
*By Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)*
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I found myself overwhelmed with anxiety, trepidation, and uncertainty about the future. 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. For someone who had always been introverted and quiet, venturing into the unknown felt like a big challenge. Now, as I reflect on an academic year that brought personal development, obstacles, and a lot of enjoyment, I cannot help but consider the insights I’ve gained and the distance I’ve traveled.
### Conquering the Fear of Friendships
One of the most intimidating obstacles I encountered was the task of making friends. Beginning university can be quite daunting, and if you’re a prospective student reading this, it’s probably something that concerns you too. On my first day in student housing, I spent the whole day secluded in my room, too anxious to go out and say hello to others.
Fast forward to today, and I’m thrilled to report that I’ve formed some of the finest friendships I’ve ever known. The individuals I’ve connected with here have become like a second family to me. All it took was stepping beyond my comfort zone and initiating casual conversations with others who were feeling the same way.
So, what’s the takeaway? I learned that taking a chance early on is always beneficial. If you’re not quite ready or at ease initially, don’t fret—there will be plenty of icebreaker activities and chances to engage with others. Above all, just be yourself. With such a diverse group of people throughout the course and university, you’re sure to find those who resonate with your interests and values.
### Addressing the Academic Hurdles
Another considerable challenge was getting accustomed to the workload and the complexity of the course material. The leap from A-levels to university was significant, and the shift from the first term to the second term felt even more pronounced. It’s easy to become overwhelmed or question your capabilities when you see peers studying and appearing to have everything figured out.
What assisted me during these times was the understanding that everyone faces similar struggles. If something isn’t clear to you, chances are there are others who share your confusion. The essential lesson here is to ask for help—whether from classmates or instructors. This is perhaps the most crucial realization I had during my first year: don’t shy away from seeking support when necessary.
### The Significance of Supportive Staff
On the topic of support, the faculty in the Materials department are outstanding. They genuinely care about students’ success and show understanding for the difficulties we encounter. Throughout the academic year, they kept open lines of communication with us and remained accessible to address our issues.
I didn’t fully take advantage of the pastoral support offered to me until the conclusion of the year, but I wish I had engaged with it earlier. At the beginning of the year, I took a bold step by becoming a year well-being representative. This position allowed me to establish connections with faculty members, which proved to be invaluable. There are numerous ways to interact with staff, and doing so can greatly enhance your university experience. My key takeaway here is to utilize the resources and assistance available—you can never receive too much support.
### Insights Gained
Looking back, this year has revealed to me that the anxiety I experienced—both before starting university and throughout the year—was frequently unwarranted. With the extensive support from staff and fellow students, I was seldom truly isolated. I’ve learned how to manage the stress of exams and deadlines while still enjoying my time, and I’ve become more self-assured in confronting challenges directly.
As I gear up for the next phase of my university adventure, I am thankful for the experiences and lessons of my inaugural year. To anyone about to begin their own path: embrace the apprehensions, take that leap, and remember—you’re not by yourself.
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*By [Guest Blogger](https://blogs.imperial.ac.uk/student-blogs/author/bloggers/)*
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