**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 the journey ahead. I was on the verge of commencing 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. As someone who used to be quite introverted, diving into this new phase felt daunting. Reflecting back now, I recognize a year filled with personal development, hurdles, and numerous unforgettable moments. But what insights have I gained, and how do I view my current state?
### Conquering the Anxiety of Making Connections
One of the primary obstacles I encountered early in my journey was forging friendships. If you’re an incoming student, this might be an area of concern for you as well. On my initial day moving into my residence—just a few days prior to the semester beginning—I was so overwhelmed that I spent a whole day alone in my room, too anxious to meet others.
Fast forward to now, and I can assert with confidence that I’ve formed some of the most meaningful friendships of my life. I’ve discovered a second family here at Imperial, and it all initiated with casual conversations and engaging with fellow students who shared similar experiences.
So, what did I come to understand? To begin with, taking that first step is always beneficial. Even if you don’t feel prepared, there will be numerous icebreaker activities and chances to meet new colleagues. Additionally, the best approach is to be your authentic self. With such a varied student population, you’re likely to connect with individuals who resonate with your interests and values.
### Adapting to the Academic Demands
Another significant challenge was adjusting to the rigorous workload and complex course content. The transition from A-levels to university was substantial, and the shift from the first to the second term was particularly intense. It was easy to feel inundated and question my capabilities, especially when witnessing others studying with apparent ease.
What got me through was recognizing that I wasn’t isolated in my struggles. If I was grappling with a concept, chances were that many others were too. My best piece of advice? Don’t hesitate to seek help. This may be the most crucial skill to cultivate in your initial year. Whether it’s fellow students or professors, there’s invariably someone ready to assist you.
### The Value of Seeking Assistance
Speaking of assistance, one of the standout features of the Materials Science department is the supportive staff. They sincerely wish for students to thrive and are always receptive to input. Throughout the year, they kept an open line of communication with us, addressing our queries and providing guidance.
I didn’t fully utilize the available pastoral support until the conclusion of the year, and I regret not doing so earlier. One bold step I took at the beginning was becoming a year well-being representative. This position enabled me to develop connections with staff members, which turned out to be incredibly advantageous. There are myriad ways to engage with faculty, and doing so can significantly enhance your university experience. My key takeaway? Leverage the support accessible to you—you can never overdo it when it comes to assistance.
### Closing Thoughts
As I reflect on my first year, I realize that the apprehension I experienced—both before university began and throughout the year—was frequently unwarranted. There are countless resources and support frameworks available to aid students in navigating the complexities of university life. Most importantly, I’ve understood that I’m never truly alone, and it’s feasible to juggle academic demands with enjoyment and fun.
If you’re preparing to embark on your own university adventure, my straightforward advice is: take the plunge, seek assistance when necessary, and seize every opportunity that arises. You’ll evolve in ways you never anticipated, and you’ll create memories that will last a lifetime.