**Reflecting on My Initial Year at Imperial College London**
*By Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)*
Ten months prior, in October 2022, I was brimming with anxiety, uncertainty, and trepidation regarding what was to come. I was on the verge of commencing 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. Exiting my comfort zone was not something my introverted nature was accustomed to. Reflecting back, I now recognize a year rich with personal development, obstacles, and remarkable experiences. But what lessons have I taken away, 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 making friendships. If you are an incoming student, this concern might resonate with you as well. On my inaugural day in student housing, just prior to the term starting, I spent the whole day in my room, too apprehensive to venture out and introduce myself. However, fast forward to now, and I can proudly state that I have formed some of the finest friendships I’ve ever had. Imperial has transformed into a second home, and all it required was a sprinkle of small talk with individuals who were in a similar situation.
So, what have I discovered? The most significant action you can take is to make that first move. If you don’t feel prepared, that’s perfectly alright—there will be numerous icebreaker activities and chances to connect with others. Most importantly, embrace your true self. With such a varied student community, you’re guaranteed to meet individuals who share your passions and beliefs.
### Adapting to the Academic Demands
Another challenge I encountered was adjusting to the level of work and the complexity of the material. The shift from A-levels to university was noteworthy, and the transition from the first to the second term proved to be even tougher. It’s easy to feel inundated or question your capabilities when surrounded by driven classmates. Nevertheless, I quickly understood that everyone was grappling with comparable challenges. If you don’t grasp a concept, there is a good chance that others are in the same boat—so don’t hesitate to seek assistance.
This is likely the most important lesson I garnered in my initial year: requesting help is crucial. Whether it’s from peers or instructors, reaching out for assistance can significantly impact your academic experience.
### The Value of Support from Faculty
One of the remarkable aspects of my time here has been the outstanding encouragement from the Materials Science department. The faculty genuinely wish for students to thrive and are consistently receptive to feedback. They comprehend the difficulties we encounter and actively strive to mitigate our concerns.
Although I didn’t fully utilize pastoral support until later in the year, I wish I had taken advantage of it sooner. Early on, I made a move by becoming a year well-being representative, which enabled me to forge connections with faculty members—an experience I found immensely rewarding. There are various avenues to engage with staff, and doing so can substantially enrich your university journey. My primary takeaway? Utilize the support that is available—you can never have too much assistance!
### Concluding Thoughts
As I reflect on my first year, I’ve come to understand that the anxiety I felt before and during my time at university was often unfounded. With the right backing from faculty and fellow students, those fears evaporated quickly. I’ve learned that I’m never genuinely alone, and I have discovered how to navigate academic challenges while savoring student life.
If you’re about to embark on your adventure at Imperial, remember that you will face challenges, but extraordinary opportunities for growth will also arise. Take that leap, seek assistance, and, most importantly, relish the experience!
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**By** [Guest Blogger](https://blogs.imperial.ac.uk/student-blogs/author/bloggers/)
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