**Thoughts on My Initial Year in Materials Science and Engineering**
*By Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)*
Ten months prior, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, uncertainty, and skepticism regarding what was to come. 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, and venturing into the unfamiliar was intimidating for someone as introverted and reserved as I am. Now, reflecting back, I recognize a year rich with personal development, obstacles, and unforgettable moments. But what insights have I gained, and what is my current standing?
### Conquering the Anxiety of Making Connections
One of the most significant obstacles I encountered at the onset was forming friendships. If you are an incoming student, this might be a primary concern for you as well. On my first day in student housing, just prior to the start of classes, I spent the whole day sequestered in my room, too fearful to venture out and introduce myself. However, as I reflect now, I can state with confidence that I’ve cultivated some of the best friendships I’ve ever known.
Imperial has transformed into a second home for me, and all it required was stepping outside my comfort zone and engaging in light conversation with others experiencing similar feelings. My greatest lesson? Take that initial leap without delay. If you find yourself hesitant, rest assured—there will be numerous ice-breaking activities and chances to meet new people. Above all, remain true to yourself. With such a varied student community, you are sure to encounter those who share your interests.
### Adapting to the Academic Demands
Another significant challenge was adjusting to the demands of the coursework and the rise in the complexity of the material. The transition from A-levels to university proved substantial, and the shift from the first term to the second was even more rigorous. It can be easy to feel inundated or question your capabilities when observing others study fervently.
What facilitated my perseverance was coming to the understanding that everyone encounters difficulties at some point. If you find something confusing, it’s likely that others do as well. The most beneficial action you can take is to seek assistance—whether from classmates or the faculty. Developing the ability to seek support is one of the most crucial skills you can hone in your first year.
### The Dedicated Staff and Pastoral Support
A key highlight of my journey has been the immense support from the Materials Science department. The faculty sincerely wish for students to thrive and are consistently approachable regarding our queries. Although I didn’t fully appreciate the pastoral support until later in the year, I wish I would have taken advantage of it earlier.
At the beginning of the year, I ventured out of my comfort zone by becoming a well-being representative for my cohort. This position enabled me to establish connections with faculty members, which turned out to be invaluable. There are numerous avenues to connect with faculty, and engaging with them can significantly enrich your university journey. My foremost takeaway? Leverage the support available—there’s no such thing as too much assistance.
### Concluding Thoughts
In retrospect, this year has shown me that the fears and worries I held before starting university were mostly unwarranted. With ample support from both faculty and fellow students, I was able to maneuver through challenges and build my self-assurance. Most importantly, I’ve discovered that it’s feasible to relish university life while handling the stresses of exams and deadlines.
For anyone preparing to embark on their journey at Imperial, my guidance is straightforward: embrace the experience, seek help when necessary, and don’t hesitate to take that initial step. You might just astonish yourself with the extent of your growth along the journey.