**Insights from My Initial Year in Materials Science and Engineering**
*By Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)*
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I was overcome with nerves, apprehension, and uncertainty as I prepared to begin 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 someone who has always been rather shy and introverted, immersing myself in this new phase felt daunting. Now, reflecting on the past academic year, I recognize it as a time of substantial personal development, challenges, and unforgettable moments. But what insights have I gained, and where do I find myself now?
### Conquering the Challenge of Friendship
One of the most daunting parts of starting university was the idea of making new connections. If you’re a future student reading this, it’s likely a concern on your mind as well. On my initial day in student accommodation, a few days before the term officially started, I spent the whole day confined to my room, too anxious to venture out and introduce myself. Fast forward to the present, and I can proudly claim that I’ve formed some of the strongest friendships I’ve ever known.
The pivotal moment arrived when I chose to take the plunge and engage in casual conversations with others who were feeling just as uncertain as I was. Gradually, I discovered a second family at Imperial, both within my program and throughout the university. My most significant lesson? Make that effort to connect early on. Even if you feel reluctant or uneasy, there will be many icebreaker activities and chances to meet new faces. Most importantly, be yourself. With such a diverse array of individuals at university, you’re sure to find those who resonate with your interests and principles.
### Navigating the Academic Shift
Another major hurdle was adjusting to the heavier workload and the shift in complexity from A-levels to university studies. The change was apparent, and the jump from the first term to the second felt even more pronounced. It’s easy to feel swamped or question your capabilities when you observe others studying and assume they’re coping better than you.
What aided me was the understanding that everyone is navigating similar struggles. If you’re finding something challenging, it’s very likely that others are too. The essential strategy is to seek assistance. This might be the most crucial skill to cultivate in your first year—whether it’s asking peers for help or reaching out to faculty.
### The Helpful Staff in Materials Science
Speaking of faculty, one of the standout aspects of my first year has been the outstanding backing from the Materials Science department. The staff genuinely care about students’ success and are sympathetic to the challenges we encounter. They keep open channels of communication throughout the year, addressing student issues and providing support.
Even though I didn’t make full use of the pastoral support services until late in the year, I wish I had taken advantage of them sooner. Early on, I took a step by becoming a well-being representative for my year, which allowed me to build relationships with faculty members. This opportunity proved to be incredibly beneficial. There are numerous avenues to connect with staff, and I strongly encourage others to make the most of these chances. My key takeaway here? Don’t shy away from utilizing the support available to you—you can never have too much assistance.
### Concluding Thoughts
In summary, this year has shown me that the anxiety I experienced prior to starting university—and even throughout the year—was often misplaced. With the abundance of support from both staff and peers, I realized that I was never truly alone. I also learned how to balance the stress of exams and deadlines with moments of joy and leisure.
Looking back, my first year at Imperial has been a transformative experience. It has been a period of development, learning, and forming bonds that I will treasure for many years to come. If you’re about to commence your own university journey, embrace the challenges, take those bold steps, and remember—you’re capable of achieving this!
*By [Guest Blogger](https://blogs.imperial.ac.uk/student-blogs/author/bloggers/)*
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