**Reflections on My Initial Year in Materials Science and Engineering**
*Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)*
Almost a year ago, back in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, worry, and uncertainty about what lay ahead. I was about to begin 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. Having always been a bit shy and introverted, immersing myself in this new environment felt quite intimidating. Now that I reflect on this past academic year, I recognize just how much I have developed, the obstacles I encountered, and the enjoyable moments I experienced along the way. So, what insights have I gained, and what is my current perspective?
### Building Friendships: Taking the First Step
One of the most anxiety-inducing challenges I confronted was forming friendships. If you are a prospective student reading this, you may be feeling the same concern. On my first day of moving into my accommodation, mere days before the semester commenced, I spent the entire day tucked away in my room, too scared to venture out and introduce myself. Fast forward to today, and I can confidently affirm I’ve forged some of the most meaningful friendships I’ve ever had. At Imperial, I’ve discovered a second family, and it only required stepping outside my comfort zone and engaging in casual conversations with others who were equally apprehensive.
What did I take away from this experience? I discovered that it’s always worthwhile to take that first step at the year’s beginning. If you feel unprepared or uncomfortable, don’t fret—there are many ice-breaking activities and events designed to help you bond with others. Most importantly, I realized that being true to yourself is essential. With such a diverse group of individuals within the course and the university, you are certain to find those who align with your interests and values.
### Managing the Workload: Seeking Assistance
Another significant challenge was adapting to the demands of the workload and the complexity of the material. The leap from A-levels was certainly noticeable, and the transition from the first term to the second was even more pronounced. Being thrust into such a setting can test your confidence, especially when you see others studying and feel as if you are lagging. But here’s the truth: everyone is experiencing similar struggles. If something is unclear to you, it’s likely others are finding it challenging too.
The most critical lesson I learned in my first year was to seek assistance. Whether it’s from fellow students or faculty, don’t hesitate to reach out. This simple gesture can significantly ease your navigation through the academic challenges of university life.
### Support from Faculty: Creating Connections
On the topic of faculty, the support from the Materials department has been remarkable. The lecturers and tutors sincerely desire for you to thrive, and they recognize the difficulties students encounter. They maintain open lines of communication with us throughout the year, addressing any concerns we might have. Although I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support until the latter part of the year, I wish I had taken advantage of it earlier.
At the beginning of the year, I decided to step forward by becoming a year wellness representative. This position enabled me to connect more with the faculty, a benefit that has been invaluable. There are numerous ways to interact with faculty, and doing so can truly enhance your university experience. My main takeaway is to fully utilize the support at your disposal—there’s never too much help!
### Concluding Thoughts: Welcoming the Journey
Overall, this year has shown me that the apprehension I felt before and during university was mostly unfounded. With the extensive support available from both staff and peers, I’ve learned that I am never alone. More importantly, I have gained the ability to enjoy myself while managing the unavoidable stress of exams and deadlines.
Reflecting on my journey, I’m proud of my progress, and I look forward to what comes next. If you are about to embark on your own university adventure, my guidance is straightforward: take that leap, seek help when needed, and remember to savor the experience.
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By [Guest Blogger](https://blogs.imperial.ac.uk/student-blogs/author/bloggers/)
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