**Reflections on My Inaugural Year in Materials Science and Engineering**

*Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)*

Ten months ago, in October 2022, I was engulfed in feelings of anxiety, fear, and uncertainty about 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. For someone who had always been shy and introverted, plunging into this new phase was quite intimidating. Now, reflecting on the past year, I recognize a time rich with growth, challenges, and countless unforgettable experiences. So, what exactly have I gleaned from this year, and what is my current standing?

### Forming Friendships: A Bold Step

One of the most anxiety-inducing obstacles I encountered was forging friendships. If you’re a prospective student reading this, you might be experiencing similar fears. On my initial day of moving into my accommodation, just days before classes commenced, I spent the whole day retreating into my room, feeling too daunted to venture out and introduce myself. Fast forward to today, and I can assert that I’ve formed some of the finest friendships of my life. Here at Imperial, I’ve discovered a second family, and it all began with a bit of casual conversation with others who were just as nervous.

So, what did I take away from this? I found that it’s always beneficial to make that first move. If you’re not yet feeling prepared or at ease, don’t fret! There will be plenty of ice-breaking activities and chances to connect with others. Most importantly, I realized that authenticity is crucial. With such a diverse community at the university, you’re sure to encounter individuals who resonate with you.

### Confronting the Workload and Academic Obstacles

Another considerable challenge was acclimating to the demanding workload and intricate subject matter. There was a noticeable escalation from A-levels, and an even steeper climb from the first term to the second. Being thrust into such a rigorous academic setting can, at times, shake your self-assurance. You might observe others engrossed in their studies and feel inadequate. However, here’s the truth: everyone shares the same experience. If you find something confusing, there’s a good chance others do, too. Therefore, don’t hesitate to seek assistance. This became the single most crucial realization of my first year—never hesitate to ask for help from both peers and faculty.

### The Significance of Support from Faculty

On the topic of faculty, the professors in the Materials department are outstanding. They genuinely desire for students to succeed and are aware of the challenges we face. They empathize with us, maintaining open lines of communication throughout the year to tackle any obstacles. I didn’t fully capitalize on the support system until the latter part of the year, but I regret not doing so sooner.

At the year’s outset, I took a step forward by becoming a year well-being representative. This position enabled me to engage more with the staff, which proved to be extremely beneficial. There are numerous avenues to connect with faculty, and this is one of the most advantageous things you can pursue. My main takeaway from this experience is to fully utilize the support available to you. You can never have an excess of support!

### Concluding Thoughts

Reflecting on the year, I understand now that the apprehension I felt prior to and during university was mostly unfounded. With a multitude of support avenues from both the staff and fellow students, I have learned that I am never genuinely alone. More importantly, I have gained insight into how to balance enjoyment with the inevitable pressures of exams and deadlines.

By [Guest Blogger](https://blogs.imperial.ac.uk/student-blogs/author/bloggers/)

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