**Insights from My Initial Year in Materials Science and Engineering**

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

A decade ago, in October 2022, I was overcome with anxiety, fear, and uncertainty about the future. I was on the verge 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. For someone who had always been introverted and quiet, jumping straight into this fresh chapter was quite daunting. Now that I reflect on the previous academic year, I recognize it as a time filled with personal development, challenges, and a lot of enjoyment. But what insights have I gained, and what is my current situation?

One of the most intimidating aspects I encountered early in my journey was forming friendships. This is a common concern for many newcomers, and if you’re reading this as an incoming student, it might be crossing your mind too. On my inaugural day in student housing, just prior to the start of the term, I spent the whole day sequestered in my room, too nervous to venture out and meet others. Fast forward to now, and I can proudly say that I’ve cultivated some of the finest friendships I’ve ever experienced. Here at Imperial, I’ve discovered a second family, all of which began with casual conversations with individuals who shared my situation.

So, what did I learn? I found that taking that first step is always rewarding. If you don’t feel prepared or at ease immediately, don’t stress! There are numerous ice-breaking events and chances to engage with others. Most importantly, I learned that being true to yourself is vital. With such a diverse community across the university, you’re sure to connect with those who appreciate your interests and values.

Another considerable challenge was adapting to the coursework demands and the intricacies of the materials. There was indeed a marked increase from A-level studies, and the shift from the first to the second term was even more daunting. It’s simple to feel overwhelmed or question your capabilities when observing others study, but it’s crucial to remind yourself that everyone is experiencing the same challenges. If something is unclear to you, it’s likely that others are in the same boat. The most significant lesson I absorbed in my first year was to seek assistance—whether from classmates or faculty.

Speaking of faculty, the professors in the Materials department are remarkable. They truly wish to see you thrive and recognize the challenges students endure. Throughout the year, they maintained open lines of communication with us, addressing our worries and providing assistance. I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support offered until the end of the year, but I now wish I had taken advantage of it sooner.

At the start of the year, I took the initiative to become a year well-being representative. This position enabled me to build better relationships with the staff, which proved to be immensely beneficial. There are plentiful opportunities to engage with faculty, and doing so can greatly enhance your university experience. My primary takeaway from this is to fully utilize the available support—you can never have too much assistance!

In summary, this year has shown me that the anxiety I felt before and during my university experience was mostly groundless. With the extensive support from both faculty and fellow students, I’ve realized that I’m never alone. Furthermore, I’ve learned how to find a balance between enjoying my time and managing the inevitable pressures of exams and deadlines.

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