**Reflections on My Initial Year in Materials Science and Engineering**
*By Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)*
Nearly ten months ago, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with nerves, fear, and uncertainty about the path ahead. I was on the cusp of starting my degree 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) as a first-year student at Imperial College London. For someone who had always been introverted and reserved, embarking on this new journey felt quite intimidating. Now, as I reflect on the last academic year, I recognize it as a time of significant personal development, challenges, and memorable experiences. So, what have I gained from this, and where do I find myself now?
### Conquering the Anxiety of Making Connections
One of the most daunting obstacles I encountered was forming friendships. Entering university is often overwhelming, and if you are an incoming student reading this, it’s likely one of your biggest concerns. On my first day of moving into my residence, just days before the semester officially commenced, I spent the entire day sequestered in my room, too anxious to venture out and introduce myself to anyone.
Fast forward to now, and I can proudly assert that I’ve forged some of the best friendships I’ve ever had. At Imperial, I’ve discovered a second family, both within my course and beyond. It merely required a bit of bravery to engage in casual conversations with individuals who shared my situation.
So, what did I learn from this experience? Taking that first step at the beginning of the year is essential. If you’re not feeling ready or comfortable, don’t fret—there will be abundant icebreaker events and chances to meet others. Above all, just be yourself. With such a varied community at Imperial, you are sure to encounter others who resonate with your interests and values.
### Adjusting to Academic Demands
A further significant challenge was adapting to the workload and the heightened difficulty of the material. The leap from A-levels to university was indeed marked, and the shift from the first to the second term seemed even more daunting. Being in such a demanding academic atmosphere can occasionally shake your confidence, particularly when you observe others studying diligently and feel like you’re lagging behind.
What helped me navigate these periods of self-doubt was the understanding that I was not in this alone. Everyone was grappling with similar struggles, and if I was having difficulty grasping a concept, chances were that others were too. The key takeaway here? Do not hesitate to ask for assistance. This is possibly the most critical skill to cultivate in your first year. Reach out to your fellow students, and don’t be shy to approach the faculty—they are there to assist you.
### Establishing Connections with Faculty
Regarding faculty, one of the standout features of my first year was realizing how supportive and approachable the Materials department staff are. They truly want students to excel and are well aware of the challenges we encounter. Throughout the year, they kept the lines of communication open and demonstrated compassion for our difficulties.
While I didn’t fully utilize the available pastoral support until the year’s end, I wish I had taken advantage of it earlier. Stepping into the role of a year well-being representative was a brave leap for me, but it proved to be immensely rewarding. It provided me with the opportunity to foster relationships with faculty members, which has been invaluable. There are numerous ways to connect with staff, and doing so can significantly enrich your university experience. My main lesson? Utilize the support systems at your disposal—you can never have too much help!
### Key Takeaways from My First Year
In contemplating this year, I’ve realized that the anxiety I experienced prior to starting university—and even throughout the year—was often unfounded. With the plethora of support resources available, from staff to fellow students, there’s always someone to reach out to. I’ve recognized that I am never truly alone, and I’ve learned how to balance enjoying myself while handling the inevitable pressures of exams and deadlines.
This initial year has been a journey of growth, and I’m eager to see what the future holds. To anyone on the brink of commencing their own university journey: take the plunge, embrace the challenges, and remember—you’ve got this!
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*By [Guest Blogger](https://blogs.imperial.ac.uk/student-blogs/author/bloggers/)*
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