**Musings on My Inaugural Year in Materials Science and Engineering**
*By Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)*
Ten months prior, in October 2022, I was engulfed by anxiety, uncertainty, and self-doubt regarding what was to come. I was on the brink of commencing my first year of [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 phase felt daunting. Reflecting now, I recognize a year rich with personal development, obstacles, and unforgettable experiences. 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 entering university was the task of forming new friendships. If you’re a prospective student, this might also be one of your primary worries. On my inaugural day in student accommodation, just prior to the start of the term, I spent the entire day in my room, too anxious to venture out and introduce myself. However, fast forward to today, and I can assertively say that I’ve formed some of the finest friendships I’ve ever experienced.
Imperial has transformed into a second home for me, and all it took was initiating small chats with others who were similarly situated. My most significant lesson? Take that initial leap. If you’re feeling unprepared, rest assured—there will be numerous ice-breakers and social gatherings to facilitate connections with others. Above all, just be yourself. With such a diverse student population, you are sure to encounter like-minded individuals.
### Navigating the Academic Demands
Another significant challenge was adapting to the academic workload and the heightened complexity of the material. There was a clear shift from A-levels, and an even larger leap from the first term to the second. This transition wasn’t always smooth, and at times, I questioned whether I was keeping pace. Observing others study earnestly can occasionally lead to self-doubt.
What assisted me during this period was recognizing that everyone grapples with similar difficulties. If something is unclear to you, there is a good chance that it is for others as well. The most beneficial action you can take is to seek assistance—whether from fellow students or faculty. Learning to seek help is among the most important skills you can cultivate in your first year.
### The Value of Staff Support
A standout aspect of my experience has been the remarkable backing from the Materials department staff. They are genuinely invested in student success and are consistently receptive to discussions regarding any obstacles we encounter. Although I didn’t fully utilize pastoral support until later in the year, I now wish I had sought it out earlier.
At the beginning of the year, I took an adventurous step by becoming a year well-being representative. This role afforded me the chance to foster relationships with staff members, which has proven invaluable. There are numerous avenues to engage with faculty, and doing so can greatly enrich your university experience. My crucial takeaway? Make the most of the available support—you can never have too much assistance!
### Conclusive Thoughts
In retrospect, this year has illuminated the fact that the apprehension I felt before starting university was mainly unwarranted. There are numerous support mechanisms in place, both from faculty and fellow students, to aid you during the transition. Most importantly, I’ve discovered that I am never truly alone, and that it is entirely possible to relish university life despite the pressures of exams and deadlines.
If you are on the verge of beginning your university adventure, my counsel is straightforward: embrace the hurdles, seek help when necessary, and take that leap—you won’t regret it!