**Contemplations 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 riddled with anxiety, fear, and uncertainty about what was to come. I was on the verge of beginning my adventure 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 introverted and cautious, plunging into the unknown was daunting. Now, reflecting on a year full of growth, trials, and remarkable experiences, I can assert that it has been a life-changing journey. But what insights have I gained, and where do I find myself today?
### Conquering the Anxiety of Forming Connections
One of the most daunting obstacles I encountered was fostering friendships. For numerous incoming students, this is one of the principal worries about commencing university, and I was no different. On my first day in student accommodation, just days before classes officially started, I spent the whole day secluded in my room, too anxious to venture out and meet new people.
Fast forward to now, and I’m delighted to declare that I’ve developed some of the closest friendships I’ve ever known. These connections have evolved into a second family for me, both within my program and throughout the university. It only took a little courage to step beyond my comfort zone and initiate brief conversations with fellow students who shared similar feelings.
So, what have I realized? Taking that first step is vital. If you’re not prepared immediately, don’t stress—there will be an abundance of icebreaker events and chances to mingle with others. Most importantly, just be yourself. With such a varied student community, you’re likely to find individuals who resonate with your interests and beliefs.
### Navigating Academic Obstacles
Another substantial challenge was adapting to the demands of the course and the intricacies of the material. The leap from A-levels to university was stark, and the transition between the first and second term felt even more pronounced. It’s easy to feel swamped or question your abilities when witnessing peers study and seemingly thrive.
What propelled me forward was recognizing that everyone is grappling with similar challenges. If you’re struggling to grasp something, you’re probably not the only one. The secret is to seek assistance—whether it’s from classmates or educators. This might be one of the most essential skills to cultivate during your inaugural year.
### Assistance from the Materials Department
Speaking of seeking assistance, I must emphasize the remarkable support provided by the Materials Science and Engineering faculty. They genuinely care about the success of students and understand the hurdles we encounter. Throughout the year, they fostered open communication with us, addressing our inquiries and offering support.
While I didn’t fully leverage the pastoral support until late in the year, I wish I’d taken advantage of it sooner. One of my best choices was becoming a year well-being representative. This position enabled me to forge connections with staff members, which turned out to be incredibly beneficial. There are numerous ways to engage with staff, and I wholeheartedly recommend seizing these opportunities. My most significant lesson? Don’t hesitate to utilize the resources and support systems at your disposal—you can never have too much assistance!
### Insights Gained
In summary, this year has shown me that the apprehension I felt—both prior to university and throughout the academic year—was often unwarranted. With the extensive support available from faculty and fellow students, those anxieties can be alleviated. I’ve discovered that I’m never truly alone and that balancing academic pressures like exams and deadlines with enjoyable moments is entirely feasible.
Looking back, I recognize a year marked by personal development, resilience, and unforgettable experiences. For anyone preparing to embark on their university journey, my message is straightforward: take that leap, embrace the hurdles, and don’t shy away from asking for help. You’ll be astonished at how much you can evolve in just a year.
*By [Guest Blogger](https://blogs.imperial.ac.uk/student-blogs/author/bloggers/)*
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