**Reflections on My Initial Year in Materials Science and Engineering**
*Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)*
Almost ten months ago, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with nervousness, apprehension, and uncertainty about what was to come. I was about to commence my journey as a first-year student 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. Having always been somewhat shy and introverted, stepping into the unknown felt far from comfortable. Now, as I reflect on this past academic year, I can appreciate the growth I’ve experienced, the obstacles I’ve surmounted, and the enjoyment I’ve had along the way. So, what have I gained from this year, and what is my current perspective?
### Conquering the Anxiety of Socializing
One of the most intimidating challenges I encountered was forging new friendships. If you’re a prospective student reading this, you may feel the same sense of trepidation I experienced. On my initial day moving into student housing, just days before the term kicked off, I spent the entire day sequestered in my room, too daunted to venture out and meet others. Fast forward to now, and I can proudly say that I’ve formed some of the closest friendships I’ve ever had. At Imperial, I’ve discovered a second family, and all it took was initiating some small conversations with those who were navigating similar experiences.
So, what was my takeaway? I learned that taking that first step is always worthwhile. If you’re not feeling prepared or at ease initially, don’t fret—there will be ample opportunities and events created to help you connect with others. Most importantly, I discovered that authenticity is crucial. With the diverse array of people within the course and university, you’re likely to find others who resonate with your interests and values.
### Adapting to the Academic Demands
Another significant obstacle was acclimating to the workload and the level of difficulty of the material. There was indeed a clear transition from A-levels, with an even more pronounced jump from the first term to the second. Being thrust into such a rigorous academic atmosphere can sometimes undermine your confidence, especially upon seeing peers studying and beginning to question your own capabilities. But here’s the reality: everyone is facing similar challenges. If you find something puzzling, I can almost assure you that others are grappling with it too. The most vital lesson I absorbed during my first year was the importance of seeking help. Whether from classmates or instructors, reaching out for assistance is essential.
### The Value of Faculty Support
Speaking of faculty, I cannot stress enough how exceptional the faculty in the Materials department is. They genuinely care about your success and recognize that students often encounter difficulties. Throughout the year, they kept us informed about any challenges we were facing. While I didn’t fully leverage the pastoral support until later in the year, I wish I had utilized it sooner.
At the year’s outset, I took a bold step by becoming a well-being representative for my cohort. This experience enabled me to better connect with the staff, which turned out to be immensely beneficial. There are numerous ways to foster relationships with the faculty, and doing so can greatly enhance your university experience. My key insight here is to take full advantage of the available support—you can never have too much assistance!
### Concluding Thoughts
As I reflect on this year, I’ve come to realize that the apprehension I felt, both prior to and during university, was largely unwarranted. There are abundant support systems in place, ranging from staff to fellow students, that can help alleviate these anxieties. I’ve also realized that I’m never truly isolated, and it’s possible to relish university life even amidst the demands of exams and deadlines.
In closing, my first year at Imperial has been a life-changing experience. It has taught me to embrace challenges, seek help when necessary, and most importantly, to savor the journey.
—
*By [Guest Blogger](https://blogs.imperial.ac.uk/student-blogs/author/bloggers/)*
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