**Thoughts on My Inaugural Year in Materials Science and Engineering**
*By Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)*
Nearly ten months ago, in October 2022, I was engulfed in anxiety, uncertainty, and apprehension regarding the future. I was set to embark on my first year studying [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 been someone quite timid and reserved in the past, immersing myself in a completely unfamiliar setting felt daunting. Reflecting now, I realize I’ve experienced a year rich with personal development, obstacles, and numerous unforgettable experiences. But what insights have I gained from this journey, and what is my current outlook?
### Conquering the Anxiety of Making Friends
One of the most significant hurdles I encountered was forming friendships. If you are an incoming student, this might be at the forefront of your worries as well. I vividly recall my first day moving into student housing—I was so daunted by the thought of meeting new people that I spent the entire day secluded in my room. However, now that I look back, I can proudly say that I’ve forged some of the most meaningful friendships I’ve ever had. Imperial has turned into a second home for me, and all it required was stepping out of my comfort zone and engaging in casual conversations with others who were equally new.
So, what did I take away from this? I learned that making the initial move is always valuable. Even when you don’t feel completely prepared, you’ll find ample ice-breaker events and chances to connect with others. Most crucially, I discovered that being authentic is the most effective strategy—Imperial is populated with a wide range of individuals, and you’re likely to discover those who resonate with your passions and principles.
### Adapting to the Academic Challenges
Another significant adjustment was accommodating the demands and complexity of the course material. The transition from A-levels was markedly significant, and an even steeper curve from the first to the second term. At times, it was easy to feel swamped and question my capabilities, particularly when witnessing others studying with great intensity. Nonetheless, I soon understood that many students were navigating similar challenges. If I found myself grappling with a concept, it was quite probable that others were too.
The most crucial lesson I absorbed was the importance of seeking help. Whether from peers or professors, asking for assistance made an enormous impact. If you’re embarking on your university journey, don’t hesitate to reach out—there’s always someone ready to lend a hand.
### Engaging with Faculty
One of the standout elements of studying Materials Science and Engineering at Imperial is the dedicated staff. They sincerely desire for students to thrive and are consistently willing to accept feedback. Throughout the year, they kept open lines of communication with us, addressing our concerns and providing support.
While I didn’t fully take advantage of pastoral assistance until later in the year, I wish I had done so earlier. One of my wisest choices was to serve as a year well-being representative. This position enabled me to forge connections with faculty members, which turned out to be tremendously beneficial. There are countless opportunities to engage with staff, and doing so can significantly enrich your university experience. My primary lesson? Utilize the support that’s available—you can never have excessive help.
### Concluding Thoughts
Reflecting on this year, I’ve learned that many of the fears I harbored prior to starting university were unfounded. There is a wealth of support available, from staff as well as fellow students, to aid in overcoming any difficulties. Most importantly, I’ve realized that I’m never alone, and enjoying university life amidst the pressures of exams and deadlines is absolutely feasible.
If you’re about to commence your journey at Imperial, my guidance is straightforward: take the plunge, be genuine, and don’t shy away from seeking assistance. You may very well be astonished by how much you evolve throughout the process.