**Thoughts on My Initial Year Studying Materials Science and Engineering**
*By Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)*
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, ambiguity, and skepticism regarding my future. I was on the brink 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 has always been introverted and quiet, immersing myself in a totally unfamiliar setting felt intimidating. Reflecting on this past year, I perceive a journey marked by personal development, obstacles, and abundant enjoyment. But what insights have I gained, and where do I find myself now?
### Conquering the Anxiety of Making Connections
One of the primary obstacles I encountered early on was forging friendships. If you’re an incoming student, this may also be a concern for you. On my first day at the student residence, the thought of interacting with new people left me feeling so apprehensive that I spent the entire day secluded in my room. However, fast forward to today, and I’m proud to say I’ve formed some of the most meaningful friendships in my life.
The essential lesson? Embrace the challenge. Even if you don’t believe you’re ready, there will be numerous icebreaker activities and chances to connect with others. Most importantly, remain true to yourself. With such a varied student community, you will inevitably find individuals who resonate with your passions and principles.
### Adapting to the Academic Demands
Another significant challenge involved acclimating to the heightened workload and complexity of university coursework. The transition from A-levels was substantial, and the shift from the first to the second term was even more rigorous. There were moments when I questioned my capabilities, particularly when observing others immersed in their studies and feeling as if I was falling behind.
What aided me during this period? Reminding myself that everyone was experiencing similar struggles. If I found something perplexing, it was quite possible that others were as well. The most beneficial action I took was to seek assistance—whether it was from fellow students or faculty members. Learning to ask for support is among the most crucial skills you can cultivate in your initial year.
### The Value of Staff Support
One of the greatest revelations of my first year was the unwavering support from the staff in the Materials Science department. They genuinely aspire for students to excel and are consistently receptive to feedback. Although I didn’t fully engage with the pastoral care until later in the academic year, I regret not doing so at an earlier stage.
In the early part of the year, I took a step forward by becoming a well-being representative for my cohort. This position enabled me to form connections with staff members, which turned out to be incredibly advantageous. There are numerous avenues to interact with lecturers and support personnel, and taking those steps can significantly enhance your university experience. My most important takeaway? Utilize the resources available—extra support is always beneficial.
### Closing Thoughts
In retrospect, this year has shown me that many of the apprehensions I harbored prior to starting university were unfounded. There exists an abundance of support systems, ranging from faculty to fellow students, designed to assist you in navigating the hurdles. Most importantly, I’ve realized that I am never alone, and that balancing academic difficulties with a fulfilling university life is entirely achievable.
If you’re about to embark on your university journey and are feeling anxious, recognize that such feelings are completely valid. Embrace the challenge, don’t hesitate to ask for help when necessary, and welcome the adventure that lies ahead.
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**By [Guest Blogger](https://blogs.imperial.ac.uk/student-blogs/author/bloggers/)**
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