### Thoughts on My Initial Year in Materials Science and Engineering
*Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)*
Nearly a year ago, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, uncertainty, and skepticism about what the future held. I was on the brink 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 introverted and modest, entering this new phase felt daunting. Reflecting on the past year, I realize it has been a time of personal development, obstacles, and numerous unforgettable experiences. But what insights have I gained, and how do I view my current position?
### Conquering the Anxiety of Forming Friendships
A significant obstacle I confronted at the beginning was the task of forming friendships. If you’re an incoming student, this could be a concern you relate to. I recall my first day settling into student housing—I remained in my room for the entirety of the day, too anxious to venture out and introduce myself. However, now I can proudly say that I’ve built some of the most meaningful friendships of my life.
Imperial feels like a home away from home for me, and all it required was stepping outside my comfort zone and engaging in casual conversations with others who were equally apprehensive. The most important lesson? Take the plunge at the beginning of the year. Even if you’re not quite ready, there will be ample opportunities for ice-breaking and social activities to facilitate connections. Above all, be authentic—Imperial is brimming with a diverse array of people, and you will undoubtedly find those who resonate with your interests and principles.
### Adapting to Academic Demands
Another significant challenge was adjusting to the heavy workload and the heightened complexity of the material. The shift from A-levels to higher education was substantial, and the transition from the first to second term was particularly taxing. It’s natural to feel daunted or question your own capabilities, especially when you observe others seeming to have everything under control.
What aided me during this time was the understanding that everyone is navigating similar struggles. If you’re having difficulty grasping a concept, it’s likely that others are too. The crucial element is to reach out for assistance—be it from classmates or instructors. Cultivating the ability to seek help is one of the most crucial skills you can acquire during your inaugural year.
### The Value of Support from Faculty
A standout feature of studying Materials Science at Imperial is the exceptional support provided by the staff. They are sincerely invested in the success of students and are always receptive to input and discussions regarding any hurdles we encounter. Although I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support until later in the year, I wish I had made use of it earlier.
At the beginning of the year, I took a significant step by becoming a well-being representative for my year. This position enabled me to forge connections with staff members, which turned out to be incredibly beneficial. There are numerous avenues for engaging with faculty, and doing so can significantly enrich your university journey. My recommendation? Take full advantage of the support at your disposal—you can never have too much assistance!
### Concluding Thoughts
In hindsight, my first year has revealed that the worries and fears I harbored prior to starting university were predominantly unwarranted. A wealth of assistance exists, from both staff and peers, to help navigate various challenges. Most importantly, I’ve discovered that I’m never truly alone, and that enjoying university life is completely feasible, even amidst the stress of exams and deadlines.
If you’re about to embark on your adventure at Imperial, my advice is straightforward: seize opportunities, seek help, and embrace every possibility. You will develop in ways you never anticipated, and before long, you’ll find yourself reflecting on an extraordinary first year.
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**Authored by** [Guest Blogger](https://blogs.imperial.ac.uk/student-blogs/author/bloggers/)
**Categorised under:** Uncategorised
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