**Reflections 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 engulfed by feelings of anxiety, trepidation, and uncertainty regarding my future. I was on the verge of starting my journey 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 first-year student at Imperial College London. For an individual who had always been introverted and quiet, stepping into unfamiliar territory was quite intimidating. Reflecting on this time now, I recognize a year rich in development, obstacles, and a lot of enjoyment. But what insights has this year provided me, and what is my current standing?
### Conquering the Anxiety of Forming Friendships
One of the most anxiety-inducing hurdles I encountered was making friends. If you’re an incoming student reading this, you might relate to those feelings. On my first day of settling into my accommodation, just days prior to the start of the term, I spent the entire day sequestered in my room, too daunted to venture out and introduce myself to anyone. Fast forward to now, I can proudly state that I’ve formed some of the best friendships I’ve ever known—friends who feel like a second family.
What worked for me was simply initiating small interactions. A little bit of casual conversation with others in similar situations made a big difference. If there’s one lesson I’ve grasped, it’s that taking that initial brave step at the onset of the year is always rewarding. And if you’re not feeling prepared or at ease right away, don’t fret! There will be numerous ice-breaking activities and chances to connect with people. Above all, just be yourself. With such a vibrant mix of individuals in the course and university, you’re sure to find others who resonate with your interests and values.
### Navigating the Academic Demands
Another considerable challenge was adapting to the academic demands and the complexity of the material. There was certainly a noticeable leap from A-levels, and the shift from the first term to the second was even more pronounced. It’s natural to feel inundated or doubt your capabilities when observing others studying and seemingly mastering everything with ease.
Nevertheless, one thing that aided me was the understanding that everyone shares this experience. If you find yourself not comprehending something, it’s likely that others are grappling with it too. The most vital lesson I acquired in my first year was to seek assistance—whether from classmates or academic staff. Don’t hesitate to reach out when you require help.
### The Value of Support from Faculty
Speaking of faculty, the professors in the Materials department are outstanding. They truly want you to thrive and grasp the issues students encounter. Throughout the year, they maintained consistent communication with us, addressing our worries and being available for guidance. I didn’t fully leverage the pastoral support until late in the year, but I regret not taking advantage of it sooner.
At the year’s start, I took the initiative to become a year well-being representative. This position allowed me to connect more deeply with the staff, which proved to be immensely beneficial. There are countless ways to establish relationships with faculty, and doing so can greatly enrich your experience at university. My key takeaway is to fully utilize the support available—you can never receive too much help!
### Concluding Thoughts
Looking back, this year has shown me that much of the anxiety I felt prior to beginning university, and even throughout the year, was largely unfounded. With the extensive support available from both staff and fellow students, help is always at hand when you need it. I have learned that I am never truly alone, and I’ve figured out how to balance having fun with managing the unavoidable pressures of exams and deadlines.
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*By [Guest Blogger](https://blogs.imperial.ac.uk/student-blogs/author/bloggers/)*
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