**Reflections on My Initial Year in Materials Science and Engineering**

*By Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)*

Nearly ten months ago, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with nerves, uncertainty, and enthusiasm as I geared up to embark on 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). Venturing into the unknown felt intimidating, particularly for someone who had always leaned towards being more introverted. Now, reflecting on my first year, I recognize it as a time of significant personal development, obstacles, and remarkable experiences. So, what insights have I gained, and what is my current perspective?

### Conquering the Challenge of Forming Friendships

One of the most significant hurdles I encountered was forging new friendships. If you are an incoming student, you may also share this concern. I vividly recall my initial day moving into student housing—I felt so overwhelmed that I spent the entire day in my room, too anxious to introduce myself to anyone.

Fast forward to now, and I’m proud to say that I’ve built some of the strongest friendships of my life. The individuals I’ve met at Imperial have become like family to me. In retrospect, I understand that all it took was initiating a bit of small talk with others experiencing the same feelings.

The main lesson here? Take the initiative early. Even if you don’t feel prepared, numerous icebreaker events and chances to meet others will arise. Most importantly, stay true to yourself—Imperial is filled with a variety of people, and you’re sure to discover others who align with your interests and values.

### Navigating the Academic Landscape

Another key obstacle was adjusting to the academic workload and the heightened complexity of university-level material. The transition from A-levels to university was quite substantial, and moving from the first to the second term was even more challenging. There were moments when I questioned my capabilities, particularly when witnessing my peers studying and feeling as though I was falling behind.

What enabled me to persevere was the understanding that everyone was facing similar struggles. If I found myself confused, it was likely that others were too. My best piece of advice? Don’t hesitate to seek help. Whether from classmates or instructors, asking for assistance is one of the most essential skills you can acquire in your first year.

### The Value of Seeking Help

Speaking of assistance, one of the standout features of studying Materials Science at Imperial is the outstanding faculty. They truly want students to thrive and are always receptive to feedback and discussions concerning any difficulties we might encounter.

Even though I didn’t fully leverage the available support systems until later in the year, I wish I had taken advantage of them sooner. One of my most beneficial choices was to become a well-being representative for my year. This role enabled me to engage with staff members, proving to be immensely helpful. There are numerous avenues to connect with faculty, and doing so can significantly enhance your university experience.

My primary takeaway? Make the most of the support options available to you. Whether it’s academic assistance, mental health services, or simply having a conversation with someone, there’s no such thing as excessive support.

### Concluding Thoughts

Looking back, my first year at Imperial has shown me that the fears and apprehensions I had before commencing university were frequently unfounded. Numerous support systems exist—ranging from staff to fellow students—to help you tackle the challenges ahead. Most importantly, I’ve come to realize that I’m never genuinely alone, and that it is possible to enjoy university life even amid the pressures of exams and deadlines.

If you are on the verge of beginning your own university journey, my advice is straightforward: embrace the journey, seek support when necessary, and seize every opportunity for growth. It’s a demanding yet incredibly fulfilling experience, and I wouldn’t exchange it for anything.

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