**Reflections on My Initial Year in Materials Science and Engineering**
*By Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)*
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with nervousness, uncertainty, and doubt regarding the journey ahead. I was on the verge 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 has always been introverted, embarking on this new phase felt daunting. Now, reflecting on the year, I recognize it as a period rich with personal development, challenges, and remarkable experiences. But what insights have I gained, and what is my current stance?
### Conquering the Anxiety of Building Friendships
A significant challenge I encountered initially was forming friendships. If you are an incoming student, this may also be a concern for you. I recall my first day in student lodging—I languished in my room for hours, too shy to venture out and introduce myself. However, fast forward to now, and I can proudly say I’ve formed some of the best friendships of my life.
The vital lesson I took away? Take the chance. Even if uncertainty lingers, there will be an abundance of social events and chances to connect with others. And above all, be true to yourself. With such a varied student community, you’re sure to find similarly minded people who resonate with your interests and values.
### Navigating the Academic Demands
Another substantial obstacle was adjusting to the workload and complexity of the course content. The leap from A-levels to university was substantial, and the transition from the first to the second term was even more pronounced. It was easy to feel inundated, especially when I compared my understanding to others who appeared to grasp concepts more effortlessly.
What aided me during this time? Reminding myself that I wasn’t isolated. If I faced difficulty with a subject, it was likely that others did as well. The most significant insight I gained was the importance of asking for assistance—whether from peers or instructors. Seeking help is not indicative of weakness; it’s a critical element of learning and development.
### The Significance of Interacting with Faculty
One of the most invaluable facets of my first year was the backing from the department’s staff. The lecturers and tutors are genuinely invested in students’ success and comprehend the hurdles we encounter. They are accessible, understanding, and consistently eager to assist.
Although I didn’t completely engage with pastoral support until later in the year, I wish I had taken advantage of it sooner. Taking on the role of a year well-being representative helped me foster connections with faculty, which turned out to be immensely advantageous. There are numerous ways to interact with teaching members, and doing so can significantly enhance your university experience. My primary takeaway? Make full use of the available support—you can never have too much assistance.
### Concluding Thoughts
In retrospect, this year has revealed to me that the fears and worries I harbored before university were largely unfounded. There is an abundance of support accessible, both from staff and fellow students. I’ve understood that I’m never truly on my own, and I’ve learned how to balance academic demands with savoring university life.
For anyone gearing up to embark on their university journey, my message is straightforward: face the challenges head-on, seek help when necessary, and don’t hesitate to step outside your comfort zone. The experiences and connections you forge will make it all worthwhile.