**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 was overwhelmed with nerves, anxiety, and uncertainty regarding what was to come. I was on the brink 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. Having always been a bit shy and reserved, plunging into this new phase felt intimidating. Now, after a year of academic growth, challenges, and happiness, I recognize just how transformative this experience has been. What insights have I gained, and what is my current perspective?
### Conquering the Anxiety of Making Friends
One of the most daunting obstacles I encountered was the social aspect of making friends. This concern is a common one among prospective students, and I was no different. On my first day in student housing, just before term commenced, I spent the whole day tucked away in my room, too apprehensive to go out and meet others.
Fast forward to now, and I can proudly say I’ve formed some of the closest friendships I’ve ever experienced. Here at Imperial, I’ve discovered a second family—something I could hardly have imagined during my initial arrival. All it required was stepping beyond my comfort zone and engaging in small conversations with others who shared my feelings.
What’s the lesson here? Taking that first plunge is vital. If you’re not ready immediately, no need to fret—there are numerous icebreaker events and ways to engage with fellow students. Most important of all, just be yourself. With such a varied community at Imperial, you’re bound to encounter individuals who resonate with your interests and values.
### Navigating the Academic Challenge
Another significant obstacle was adapting to the demands of the coursework and the complexity of the material. The shift from A-levels to university was a stark transition, and the jump from the first term to the second was even more pronounced. It wasn’t always straightforward to maintain confidence amidst this environment, especially when observing others study and feeling like I was falling behind.
What drove me to persevere was the understanding that I wasn’t in this alone. Everyone was dealing with similar hurdles, and if I struggled to grasp something, the odds were others did too. The essential lesson was learning to seek help—whether from peers or faculty. I believe this is the most crucial skill to hone during your first year.
### The Supportive Faculty
On the topic of faculty, the Materials Science department at Imperial is outstanding. The lecturers and tutors are genuinely invested in our success and demonstrate empathy towards the challenges we face. They keep communication channels open and actively address student inquiries throughout the year.
Although I didn’t fully leverage the pastoral support until later in the year, I regret not doing so sooner. Early on, I made the decision to become a Year Wellbeing Representative, which helped me forge relationships with staff members. This turned out to be invaluable. There are numerous ways to connect with faculty, and engaging with them can significantly enhance your university life. My key takeaway? Don’t hesitate to utilize the support resources at your disposal—you can never have too much assistance.
### Insights Gained
Looking back on this year, I’ve come to realize that the apprehension I experienced before starting university—and even throughout the year—was frequently unwarranted. With the extensive support offered by both staff and peers, I was never truly isolated. This year has shown me how to navigate the pressures of exams and deadlines while also embracing moments of happiness and personal advancement.
Ultimately, my first year at Imperial has been a path of self-exploration, resilience, and connection. If you’re on the verge of beginning your own university journey, keep in mind to take that leap, reach out for help when you need it, and seize the opportunities surrounding you.
*By [Guest Blogger](https://blogs.imperial.ac.uk/student-blogs/author/bloggers/)*
*Categorised under: Uncategorised*
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