**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 filled with apprehension, uncertainty, and skepticism about what was to come. I was on the verge 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. As a person who had always been shy and introverted, embarking on this new phase felt daunting. Now, as I reflect back, I recognize a year brimming with personal development, challenges, and remarkable experiences. But what insights have I gained, and where do I find myself today?
### Conquering the Anxiety of Forming Friendships
One of the greatest obstacles I confronted early on was the establishment of friendships. If you’re a prospective student, this may also be one of your primary concerns. I vividly recall my first day in student housing—I was so daunted that I spent the entire day in my room, far too anxious to introduce myself to anyone. However, as the year unfolded, I cultivated some of the most meaningful friendships I’ve ever experienced. Imperial has evolved into a second home, and it only took stepping out of my comfort zone and initiating small conversations with individuals who were experiencing similar feelings.
What was my takeaway? Taking that first plunge is invariably rewarding. If you don’t feel quite ready initially, don’t fret—there are numerous icebreaker activities and chances to meet new people. Most importantly, stay true to yourself. With such a diverse population of students, you are sure to encounter people who resonate with your interests and values.
### Coping with the Academic Demands
Another significant challenge was adapting to the course load and the heightened difficulty of the material. The leap from A-levels to university was substantial, and the transition from the first to the second term was even more trying. It’s common to feel daunted or question your abilities when observing others studying intently. Yet, one of the most important lessons I grasped was that everyone experiences these difficulties. If you’re grappling with a particular concept, odds are that others are as well.
The solution? Seek assistance. This is arguably the most crucial skill to cultivate during your first year. Whether it’s reaching out to peers or asking for help from lecturers, don’t hesitate to pose questions.
### The Value of Staff Support
One of the most advantageous aspects of studying Materials Science at Imperial is the exceptional support provided by the staff. They genuinely desire for students to thrive and are always receptive to feedback. Throughout the year, they maintained ongoing communication with us, ensuring that our concerns were acknowledged.
Although I didn’t fully take advantage of the pastoral support until later in the year, I wish I had sought it earlier. One of the wisest choices I made was becoming a well-being representative for my year. This position enabled me to forge strong connections with staff members, which proved to be invaluable. There are numerous ways to engage with the staff, and doing so can significantly enrich your university experience. My key conclusion? Make the most of the support offered—you can never have too much assistance.
### Concluding Thoughts
As I look back, this year has illuminated that many of the anxieties I held prior to starting university were unfounded. There is a vast array of support available from both staff and fellow students to help overcome any obstacles. I’ve discovered that I’m never truly isolated and that it is possible to juggle academic demands with a fulfilling university life.
For anyone on the brink of starting their adventure at Imperial, my simple advice is this: embrace the experience, reach out for support when necessary, and don’t hesitate to take that first step. It’s a journey of development, and every challenge presents a chance to grow.