**Insights from My Initial Year in Materials Science and Engineering**
*Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)*
Nearly a year ago, back in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, fear, and uncertainty about what was to come. I was on the verge of beginning my adventure as a first-year student 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 quiet, diving into the unfamiliar felt intimidating. Reflecting on the last academic year now, I recognize it as a time of significant personal development, obstacles, and plenty of enjoyment. So, what lessons has this year imparted, and where do I find myself today?
### Conquering the Anxiety of Making Connections
One of the first and most daunting challenges I encountered was forming friendships. If you’re an incoming student perusing this, you might share similar concerns. On my inaugural day moving into my new residence, just days before classes commenced, I spent the whole day secluded in my room, feeling too scared to emerge and meet new people. Fast forward to the present, and I’m delighted to say that I’ve forged some of the most meaningful friendships I’ve ever had—friends who feel like a close-knit family. All it took was a bit of casual conversation with others experiencing the same apprehension.
So, what was my takeaway? I discovered that taking that first step is always worthwhile. Even if you feel unprepared or uneasy, don’t fret—numerous icebreaker activities and chances to meet others will come your way. Most importantly, I understood that simply being yourself is the best strategy. With such a diverse group of individuals throughout the program and the university, there are bound to be those who vibe with you.
### Coping with the Academic Demands
Another considerable hurdle was adapting to the heightened workload and the complexity of the material. The transition from A-levels was distinctly noticeable, and there was an even sharper increase from the first term to the second. Being part of such a rigorous academic landscape can sometimes shake your self-assurance, especially when you witness others studying and feel like you’re lagging behind. But here’s the reality: everyone is navigating the same challenges. If something isn’t clicking for you, it’s likely that others are grappling with it too.
The most crucial insight I gained in this area is the importance of seeking help. Whether from friends or academic staff, don’t hesitate to ask for assistance. This may be one of the most vital skills to cultivate during your first year.
### The Encouraging Faculty
On the subject of staff, the faculty in the Materials department is outstanding. They genuinely desire to see you succeed and are fully aware of the hurdles students encounter. Throughout the year, they maintained open lines of communication with us, demonstrating compassion and providing support. I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral resources available until the year’s end, yet I wish I had tapped into them earlier.
At the year’s outset, I took a risk by stepping into the role of well-being representative for my cohort. This position enabled me to connect with the staff, which has proven invaluable. There are numerous avenues to engage with the faculty, and taking advantage of these can significantly enhance your university experience. My primary takeaway here is to leverage the support at your disposal—there’s no such thing as too much assistance!
### Concluding Thoughts
In summary, this year has taught me that the anxiety I experienced before and during university was mostly unwarranted. With numerous support avenues offered by both staff and peers, I was never truly isolated. I’ve acquired the ability to balance the stress of exams and deadlines with moments of joy, and I’ve evolved in ways I hadn’t anticipated.
By embracing the hurdles and prospects presented to me, I’ve enjoyed a rich and transformative first year. If you’re on the brink of beginning your university adventure, keep in mind: take that leap, seek help, and most importantly, stay true to yourself.
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**By** [Guest Blogger](https://blogs.imperial.ac.uk/student-blogs/author/bloggers/)
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