**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 anxiety, uncertainty, and apprehension regarding my 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. Having always been somewhat shy and introverted, immersing myself in a wholly unfamiliar setting felt daunting. Now, as I reflect on the past academic year, I recognize it as a path of personal development, obstacles, and many unforgettable moments. But what insights have I gained, and what is my current stance?
### Conquering the Anxiety of Forming Friendships
One of the most significant difficulties I encountered at the beginning of university was the challenge of making friends. If you are an incoming student, this may be a prominent concern for you as well. I vividly recall my first day settling into student housing—I was so daunted by the notion of meeting new individuals that I spent the entire day in my room, steering clear of social interactions.
Fast forward to now, and I can confidently assert that I’ve formed some of my closest friendships ever. I’ve discovered a second family here at Imperial, which all originated from casual conversations and pushing myself beyond my comfort zone. The key lesson? Take that leap early. Even if you don’t feel prepared, there will be numerous icebreaker events and chances to engage with others. Most importantly, just be your genuine self—Imperial is populated with diverse people, and you are sure to find those who resonate with your interests and beliefs.
### Adapting to the Academic Demands
Another significant challenge was acclimating to the demands of coursework and the heightened complexity of the material. The transition from A-levels to university was considerable, and the shift from the first to the second semester felt even more intense. It’s easy to lose faith in yourself when you observe others studying and sense that you’re trailing behind.
What enabled me to navigate this was the understanding that everyone shares similar struggles. If you’re finding it hard to grasp a concept, it’s likely that others are too. The best course of action is to seek help—whether from classmates or faculty. Learning to ask for assistance is one of the essential skills to cultivate in your first year.
### The Importance of Staff Support
Speaking of support, the teaching staff within the Materials department are exceptional. They sincerely wish for students to thrive and are always receptive to feedback. Throughout the year, they kept in close touch with us, addressing our concerns and providing direction.
I didn’t completely utilize the pastoral support system until the year’s end, but I wish I had begun earlier. One of the wisest choices I made was to become a year well-being representative. This position allowed me to forge relationships with faculty members, which turned out to be immensely beneficial. There are numerous ways to interact with the faculty, and engaging in this manner can significantly enhance your university experience. My suggestion? Make the most of the available support—you can never have too much assistance!
### Concluding Thoughts
In retrospect, this year has taught me that the apprehension I felt prior to and during university was mostly unfounded. With ample support from both staff and fellow students, I was never genuinely alone. I’ve discovered how to harmonize academic pressures with enjoyment, and I’ve become more self-assured.
For anyone preparing to embark on their university adventure, my foremost advice is to fully embrace the experience. Step outside your comfort zone, seek assistance when necessary, and above all, relish the journey.
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**By [Guest Blogger](https://blogs.imperial.ac.uk/student-blogs/author/bloggers/)**
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