**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 filled with anxiety, uncertainty, and skepticism about what awaited me. As a first-year student preparing to embark on my degree 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), I found myself entering new and uncharted territory. Being naturally shy and reserved, this new chapter felt quite daunting. Reflecting back, I recognize a year marked by personal development, challenges, and unforgettable moments. But what insights have I gained, and where do I find myself today?
### Conquering the Anxiety of Forming Friendships
One of the most daunting elements of beginning university was the prospect of making friends. If you’re an incoming student, this may be one of your foremost worries as well. On my first day in student accommodation, I spent the entire day in my room, too anxious to venture out and introduce myself. Fast forward to now, and I can proudly say that I’ve forged some of the best friendships I’ve ever had.
Imperial has truly become a second home for me, and all it took was a little small talk with people who were experiencing similar feelings. The most crucial lesson I learned? Take the initiative early on. If you’re feeling uncertain, don’t fret—there will be many icebreaker activities and chances to connect with others. Most importantly, just be yourself. With such a varied student population, you’re certain to find individuals who resonate with your interests and values.
### Adapting to Academic Demands
Another significant challenge was adjusting to the demands of the coursework and the heightened difficulty of the material. The shift from A-levels was substantial, and the leap from the first to the second term proved even more daunting. It’s easy to feel swamped or second-guess your capabilities when surrounded by diligent peers.
What aided me during this time was recognizing that everyone was grappling with their own set of challenges. If something doesn’t make sense to you, chances are it doesn’t for others either. The best action you can take is to seek assistance—whether from classmates or professors. Learning to actively seek help is one of the key skills you can cultivate in your first year.
### Assistance from Staff and Well-being Programs
One of the standout aspects of my experience has been the exceptional support from the Materials Science department. The staff are genuinely invested in students’ well-being and academic performance. They are aware of the obstacles we encounter and maintain open lines of communication throughout the year.
Although I didn’t fully utilize pastoral support until later in the year, I wish I had embraced it earlier. One of the best choices I made was taking on the role of a well-being representative for my year group. This opportunity allowed me to forge connections with faculty, which turned out to be immensely beneficial. There are numerous avenues to connect with staff, and doing so can significantly enrich your university journey. My key takeaway? Never hesitate to leverage the support available to you—you can never have too much assistance!
### Concluding Thoughts
Reflecting on this past year, I have learned that the anxiety I experienced before starting university was unfounded. There are countless support systems accessible, from faculty to fellow students, designed to facilitate the transition. Most importantly, I’ve discovered that I’m never truly alone. Despite the stresses of exams and deadlines, I’ve found ways to relish my university experience, and I wouldn’t trade this journey for anything.
If you’re on the verge of starting your own university adventure, my advice is straightforward: embrace the obstacles, seek help whenever you need it, and allow yourself to evolve. You’ll be astonished by how much you can accomplish in merely a year.