**Insights from 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, trepidation, and doubt regarding what awaited me. 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 had always been somewhat introverted and timid, stepping into this new phase felt daunting. In retrospect, I recognize a year brimming with personal development, obstacles, and numerous delightful experiences. But what insights have I gained, and what is my current standing?
### Conquering the Anxiety of Making Connections
One of the most daunting parts of beginning university was forming friendships. If you’re a potential student reading this, you may be experiencing similar feelings. I certainly did—on my initial day in student housing, I spent the whole day secluded in my room, too apprehensive to venture out and meet others. However, here I am now, proudly able to say that I’ve formed some of the most meaningful friendships I’ve ever had. Imperial has evolved into a second home, and it merely required stepping beyond my comfort zone and engaging in light conversations with others in a similar position.
So, what has this taught me? Taking that first jump is always advantageous. If you feel unprepared, don’t fret—there will be numerous icebreaker opportunities to connect with individuals. Above all, be yourself. With such a diverse student community, you are sure to encounter others who resonate with your interests and values.
### Adapting to the Academic Demands
Another significant challenge was acclimatizing to the volume of work and the complexity of the material. The transition from A-levels to university was considerable, and the shift from the first to the second term felt even more pronounced. It’s easy to question your abilities when surrounded by diligent peers, but I learned a vital lesson: everyone faces similar struggles. If you’re having difficulty grasping a concept, it’s likely that others are as well. The best course of action is to seek help—whether from fellow students or professors.
### Recognizing the Value of Support
This brings me to my next point: the remarkable support offered by the Materials Science department. The staff genuinely invests in students’ success and well-being. They recognize the hurdles we encounter and maintain open lines of communication throughout the academic year. I didn’t fully utilize pastoral support until later in the year, a realization I now wish had come sooner.
At the beginning of the year, I took a bold step by becoming a well-being representative for my cohort. This position enabled me to foster relationships with staff members, which proved to be invaluable. There are numerous avenues available to engage with faculty, and doing so can significantly enhance your university journey. My greatest lesson? Take advantage of the support systems available—you can never receive too much assistance!
### Closing Reflections
In summary, this past year has shown me that the apprehensions I experienced before and during my university experience were frequently unwarranted. There are myriad support frameworks in place, ranging from faculty to fellow students, to aid you in overcoming challenges. Most importantly, I’ve come to realize that I am never alone and that balancing academic demands with a fulfilling university experience is entirely feasible.
If you are about to embark on your journey at Imperial, seize the opportunities, seek assistance when necessary, and remember—you’ve got this!