**Reflections on My Initial Year in Materials Science and Engineering**
*Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)*
Ten months prior, in October 2022, I was engulfed with anxiety, trepidation, and uncertainty regarding what awaited me. I was on the brink 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. For an individual who had always been introverted and subdued, plunging into the depths of university life was an intimidating scenario. Now, as I reflect on the previous academic year, I recognize it as a time of significant personal development, challenges, and unforgettable moments. So, what insights have I gained, and what is my current perspective?
### Conquering the Anxiety of Forming Friendships
One of the most daunting obstacles I encountered at the onset of university was the challenge of making friends. If you’re an incoming student perusing this, you may resonate with these feelings. On my initial day in student housing, just days before classes commenced, I spent a whole day sequestered in my room, too anxious to venture out and introduce myself to others. Fast forward to now, and I can assertively say that I’ve developed some of the finest friendships of my life—friends who now resemble a second family.
What sparked this change? It commenced with minor steps, such as striking up casual conversations with individuals who were experiencing similar feelings. I realized that taking a chance early on, even if it feels uneasy, is rewarding. And if you’re not prepared right away, don’t fret—there are numerous ice-breaker activities and chances to interact with others. Most significantly, I learned that authenticity is crucial. With such a varied community at Imperial, you are sure to find people who align with your interests and values.
### Navigating the Academic Shift
Another challenge I faced was adapting to the academic demands and the heightened complexity of the coursework. The leap from A-levels to university was notable, and the shift from the first term to the second felt even tougher. It’s easy to become overwhelmed or question your competence when observing others study and wondering if you’re keeping pace.
What aided me in overcoming this was the realization that everyone shares similar struggles. If you find something tough to grasp, chances are others do as well. The best piece of advice I can offer is to seek assistance—whether from fellow students or academic staff. Learning to ask for help is one of the most beneficial skills you can acquire during your initial year.
### Assistance from Staff and Support Services
Speaking of assistance, the staff within the Materials department are outstanding. They truly wish for students to thrive and are understanding of the difficulties we encounter. Throughout the year, they kept lines of communication open with us, addressing our worries and providing direction.
Although I didn’t fully leverage the pastoral support offered until late in the year, I regret not doing so earlier. One significant step I took in the beginning was becoming a year wellness representative. This position enabled me to foster connections with staff members, which proved to be an invaluable journey. There are numerous avenues to bond with staff, and doing so can profoundly impact your university life. My key takeaway is to seize the resources and support available—you can never have an excess of backing!
### Insights Gained
In retrospect, this year has revealed to me that the anxiety I experienced—both prior to starting university and throughout the year—was frequently unwarranted. With the diverse array of support options provided by staff and fellow students, I was never truly alone. I’ve learned how to manage stress from exams and deadlines alongside moments of enjoyment and laughter, and I’ve evolved in ways I never anticipated.
If you’re on the verge of starting your own university journey, understand that feeling nervous is perfectly normal. Embrace the obstacles, take those chances, and remember that assistance is always close at hand. You can do this!
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*By [Guest Blogger](https://blogs.imperial.ac.uk/student-blogs/author/bloggers/)*
*Categorized under: Uncategorised*
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