**Reflections on My Initial Year in Materials Science and Engineering**
*Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)*
Ten months prior, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, fear, and uncertainty regarding what was to come. I was on the verge of starting my adventure 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 As someone who had always been timid and withdrawn, immersing myself in the whirlwind of university life felt daunting. Now, reflecting on the previous academic year, I recognize a path filled with personal development, obstacles, and memorable experiences. So, what insights have I gained, and where do I stand now?
### Conquering the Anxiety of Forming Friendships
One of the most daunting obstacles I encountered was the process of making friends. Starting university can be a challenging experience, and if you’re a future student reading this, you might share similar feelings. On my first day in student housing, just days before classes commenced, I spent the entire day cloistered in my room, too anxious to venture out and meet anyone.
Fast forward to now, and I can assert that I’ve formed some of the best friendships I’ve ever known. My fellow students have become like a second family to me, both within my program and throughout the university. It all began with stepping out of my comfort zone and striking up casual conversations with others in similar situations.
So, what did I take away from this? I discovered that taking a chance at the beginning of the year is always worthwhile. If you’re not quite ready or at ease, there’s no need to fret—there are numerous icebreaker events and activities aimed at helping you connect with others. Most significantly, I learned that being authentic is the best strategy. With such a varied community at Imperial, you’re sure to encounter individuals who share your passions and principles.
### Facing the Academic Demands
Another considerable challenge was adapting to the workload and the intricacies of the course content. Transitioning from A-levels to university was tough, and the shift from the first term to the second was even more pronounced. It’s easy to feel overburdened or question your capabilities when surrounded by high-achieving peers.
What assisted me in coping was the realization that everyone is experiencing similar challenges. If you struggle to comprehend something, it’s likely that others are finding it difficult as well. The crucial step is to ask for assistance—whether it’s from classmates or faculty. This is perhaps the most significant lesson I gleaned during my inaugural year: don’t hesitate to seek support.
### The Vital Role of Supportive Staff
On the topic of support, the staff in the Materials department are truly remarkable. They sincerely wish for students’ success and are understanding of the hurdles we encounter. Throughout the year, they maintained open lines of communication with us, addressing our issues and providing guidance.
Although I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support available until later in the year, I wish I had accessed it earlier. Taking on the position of year well-being representative was one of the risks I took at the beginning of the year, and it turned out to be a fulfilling experience. It enabled me to establish connections with faculty members, which proved to be invaluable.
There are numerous ways to engage with the staff, and I strongly recommend capitalizing on these opportunities. Whether through formal roles, office hours, or casual chats, nurturing these relationships can significantly impact your experience. My main takeaway? Never hesitate to leverage the resources and support systems at your disposal—you can never have too much assistance.
### Insights Gained
Looking back, this year has taught me that the apprehension I experienced before and during university was often baseless. With the ample support provided by both staff and fellow students, I came to understand that I was never truly alone. I also learned how to manage the stress stemming from exams and deadlines alongside moments of happiness and enjoyment.
Ultimately, my first year at Imperial has been a transformative journey. It has illustrated the importance of stepping beyond my comfort zone, seeking help when necessary, and embracing the opportunities that arise. For anyone about to embark on their own university adventure, remember that it’s normal to feel uneasy—but also recognize that you have the potential to thrive.
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**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