**Reflections on My Initial Year in Materials Science and Engineering**
*Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)*
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, apprehension, and uncertainty regarding what lay ahead. I was on the verge of commencing 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. As a person who has always been somewhat introverted, plunging into this new phase felt like a daunting challenge. Now, reflecting on the previous academic year, I recognize it as a time of significant personal development, obstacles, and a great deal of enjoyment. But what lessons did this year impart, and what is my current position?
### Conquering the Anxiety of Forming Friendships
One of the most formidable challenges I encountered initially was the task of forming friendships. This is a common concern for many newcomers, and if you’re reading this as a potential student, it may be weighing on your mind as well. On my first day at student housing, just before the semester commenced, I spent the entire day secluded in my room, feeling too daunted to venture out and introduce myself. Fast forward to the present, and I can state with confidence that I’ve forged some of the most meaningful friendships I’ve ever experienced. I’ve discovered a second family here at Imperial, and it all initiated with casual conversations with others sharing similar feelings.
So, what insights did I gain? The critical point is to take a bold step early on. Even if you feel unprepared or uncomfortable, rest assured—there will be an abundance of icebreakers and activities aimed at facilitating connections with others. Above all, simply be yourself. With the wide variety of personalities across the course and university, you are sure to encounter individuals who connect with you.
### Managing the Academic Load
Another major challenge was acclimating to the academic workload and the complexity of the material. There’s undoubtedly a noticeable escalation from A-levels, and the transition from the first term to the second felt even more pronounced. Being thrust into such an atmosphere can undermine your confidence, especially when you observe others studying and begin to question your own skills. But here’s what aided me: keeping in mind that everyone is navigating the same experience. If you’re grappling with something, it’s likely that others are feeling the same. The most crucial lesson I absorbed in my first year was to seek assistance—whether from fellow students or faculty.
### Assistance from the Faculty
Speaking of faculty, the support from the Materials department has been remarkable. The lecturers and tutors are genuinely invested in your success and comprehend the challenges students encounter. They maintain regular communication with us throughout the year, addressing any issues that arise. I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support until later in the year, and I genuinely wish I had taken advantage of it sooner.
At the beginning of the year, I took a bold step in becoming a well-being representative for my year. This position enabled me to cultivate connections with faculty members, which has proven invaluable. There are numerous ways to familiarize yourself with the staff, and doing so can greatly enrich your university experience. My primary takeaway? Make the most of the support at your disposal. You can never have too much assistance!
### Concluding Remarks
To summarize, this past year has shown me that the apprehensions I felt before and during university were largely unmerited. With the extensive support offered by both staff and fellow students, I was never genuinely isolated. I learned to balance the stress arising from exams and deadlines with enjoying my time here, and I’ve become more confident in myself throughout the journey.
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*By [Guest Blogger](https://blogs.imperial.ac.uk/student-blogs/author/bloggers/)*
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