**Reflecting on My Initial Year in Materials Science and Engineering**

*Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)*

Ten months prior, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, fear, and uncertainty regarding the path before me. I was on the verge of beginning my degree 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) as a freshman. For someone who had always been introverted and quiet, plunging into this new stage felt daunting. Now, in retrospect, I recognize a year brimming with personal development, obstacles, and a great deal of enjoyment! So, what lessons has this year imparted, and what is my current status?

### Building Friendships: The Initial Significant Hurdle

One of the most intimidating elements of starting university was forging friendships. If you’re reading this as a hopeful student, it may also be one of your primary worries. On my first day moving into my dorm, a few days ahead of the official term start, I spent the whole day sequestered in my room, too scared to venture out and meet others. Fast forward to the present, and I can assert with confidence that I’ve forged some of the dearest friendships I’ve ever had, both within my course and throughout the university.

Imperial has transformed into a second family for me, and all it required was a little small talk with individuals who were sharing the same experience as I was. So, what did I learn? The essential strategy is to make that initial move early on. Even if you don’t feel prepared, numerous ice-breakers and gatherings will assist you in connecting with others. Most importantly, just be yourself. With such a wide variety of individuals at the university, you are sure to find those who click with you.

### Confronting the Workload

Another significant challenge was acclimating to the workload and the heightened complexity of the material. There was a distinct shift from A-levels, and an even greater transformation from the first term to the second. Being thrust into this atmosphere can shake your self-assurance, especially when you observe others studying and feel as though you’re lagging behind.

One thing that assisted me through this was recognizing that everyone is facing similar challenges. If you’re struggling to grasp a concept, chances are, others are too. So, don’t hesitate to seek assistance. This might be the most critical lesson I acquired in my first year—never be afraid to reach out to your classmates and the faculty when you require help.

### Assistance from the Staff

Regarding the staff, the faculty in the Materials Science department is exceptional. They sincerely desire for you to succeed and comprehend the difficulties that students encounter. Throughout the year, they maintained ongoing communication with us, addressing any concerns we had. I didn’t fully take advantage of the pastoral support until later in the year, and I wish I had engaged with it sooner.

At the beginning of the year, I took the plunge and became a year well-being representative. This position enabled me to build a better rapport with the staff, which proved to be immensely beneficial. There are many avenues to connect with the faculty, and I wholeheartedly suggest pursuing them. My greatest takeaway from this experience is to seize the support being provided—you can never have an excess of assistance!

### Concluding Thoughts

In summary, this year has revealed to me that the apprehension I felt—both prior to and during university—was largely unfounded. With the multitude of support accessible from staff and fellow students, those anxieties can be effectively managed. I’ve come to realize that I’m never truly alone and that it is entirely feasible to enjoy oneself, even amid the pressures of exams and deadlines.

*By [Guest Blogger](https://blogs.imperial.ac.uk/student-blogs/author/bloggers/)*
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