**Reflections on My Initial Year in Materials Science and Engineering**
*By Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)*
Nearly ten months ago, in October 2022, I encountered a whirlwind of nerves, uncertainty, and self-doubt regarding the journey that awaited me. I was on the brink of commencing my first year 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 had often been introverted and reserved, entering this new phase felt daunting. Reflecting on this past year, I recognize it as a period rich in personal development, obstacles, and numerous unforgettable moments. But what insights have I gained, and what is my current perspective?
### Conquering the Anxiety of Forming Friendships
One of the primary hurdles I encountered early in the year was the challenge of making new friends. If you’re an incoming student, this may resonate with your own concerns. On my very first day in student housing, I found myself tucked away in my room for hours, too anxious to venture out and make introductions. Looking back now, I can assert that I’ve formed some of the most meaningful friendships of my life. My experience at Imperial has afforded me a second family, and all it required was a bit of casual conversation with others in similar situations.
So, what insights have I gained? Firstly, taking the initiative early on is always a wise choice. If you don’t feel prepared or at ease immediately, don’t fret—there will be countless icebreaker activities and chances to connect with others. Most importantly, I discovered that authenticity is the best policy. With such a diverse population of students, you’re sure to find individuals who resonate with your interests and values.
### Adapting to Academic Demands
Another significant challenge was adjusting to the increased workload and the complexity of the course material. The transition from A-levels to university was marked by a stark difference, and the shift from the first to the second term was even more rigorous. It’s all too easy to feel overwhelmed or question your capabilities when you observe others studying and appearing more self-assured.
What aided me through this transition was the realization that everyone is facing similar struggles. If you’re having difficulty grasping a concept, it’s likely that others are wrestling with it as well. The best course of action is to seek assistance—whether from your classmates or academic staff. Cultivating the ability to ask for help is one of the most crucial skills you can acquire during your initial year.
### The Significance of Connecting with Staff
In terms of support, one of the standout features of studying Materials Science at Imperial is the exceptional staff. They genuinely care about the success of their students and are always receptive to feedback and communication. I didn’t fully utilize the support systems in place until later in the academic year, but I now wish I had done so earlier.
At the year’s outset, I decided to take a step forward and became a well-being representative for my cohort. This position enabled me to foster connections with staff members, which turned out to be immensely beneficial. There are numerous avenues for engaging with staff, and pursuing these can significantly enrich your university experience. My key takeaway? Utilize all available support—you can never have enough assistance!
### Concluding Thoughts
Reflecting on this past year, I have come to understand that the apprehension and worries I experienced before entering university were mostly unwarranted. Thanks to the encouragement of staff and fellow students, I managed to navigate obstacles and evolve both academically and personally. Most importantly, I realized that I am never truly alone, and it is indeed possible to find a balance between diligent work and enjoyment, even amid the high-pressure moments like exams and deadlines.
If you are on the verge of starting university, my message is straightforward: take that leap, seek help when necessary, and approach the experience with an open heart. You may be astonished by the extent of your growth along the way.