**Thoughts 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 nerves, uncertainty, and doubt about the future. I was on the brink of starting 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 and reserved, embarking on this new chapter seemed daunting. Reflecting back, I realize it has been a year filled with personal development, challenges, and wonderful experiences. But what insights have I gained, and where do I find myself today?
### Conquering the Anxiety of Making Connections
One of the primary obstacles I encountered early on was establishing friendships. If you’re an incoming student, this may be one of your principal anxieties as well. I recall my first day moving into the student residence—I was so intimidated at the prospect of meeting new people that I spent the entire day in my room, too anxious to leave and introduce myself.
Fast forward to now, and I’m pleased to say that I’ve formed some of the best friendships of my life. I’ve discovered a second family here at Imperial, and it all began with simple conversations with others who were equally apprehensive. The key takeaway? Make that first move. Even if you don’t feel prepared, there will be numerous icebreaker activities and chances to meet people. Most importantly, just be yourself—Imperial boasts a diverse community, and you’re sure to find like-minded individuals who resonate with your interests and values.
### Adapting to Academic Demands
Another major challenge was getting used to the intensity of the workload and the complexity of the course material. The leap from A-levels to university was striking, and the transition from the first to the second term felt even tougher. At times, I questioned my capabilities, especially when I watched others study with confidence while I found certain concepts difficult to comprehend.
What drove me forward was realizing I wasn’t in this alone—many of my peers faced similar hurdles. If you’re struggling to grasp something, it’s likely that others are as well. The best step you can take is to ask for assistance. Whether it’s from classmates or professors, seeking help is essential in your first year.
### The Value of Seeking Assistance
On the topic of support, the faculty in the Materials department have been outstanding. They sincerely want students to thrive and are always available for discussions about the challenges we encounter. They understand our difficulties and maintain open lines of communication throughout the year.
Although I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral resources available to me until later in the year, I wish I had taken advantage of them earlier. One of the best choices I made was to become a year well-being representative. This position enabled me to foster connections with staff members, which proved invaluable. There are numerous ways to interact with faculty, and doing so can greatly enrich your university experience. My most significant takeaway? Utilize the support accessible to you—there’s no such thing as having too much help.
### Concluding Thoughts
In hindsight, this year has shown me that many of the fears I harbored—both prior to and during university—were unfounded. With proper support from both staff and classmates, these concerns became much easier to navigate. I’ve realized that I am never truly alone and that one can enjoy university life even when faced with the pressures of exams and deadlines.
If you’re about to embark on your journey at Imperial, my advice is straightforward: embrace the challenges, seek help when necessary, and above all, stay true to yourself. University is a period of growth, and with the right attitude, it can be an exceptionally rewarding experience.