**Thoughts on My Initial Year in Materials Science and Engineering**
*By Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)*
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with nervousness, anxiety, and uncertainty about the future. I was on the verge of starting 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 a person who has always been somewhat introverted and timid, entering this new phase felt daunting. Reflecting on the year, I recognize it has been filled with personal development, obstacles, and memorable experiences. So, what insights have I gained, and where am I now?
### Conquering the Anxiety of Friendship
One of the primary hurdles I encountered was forming new friendships. If you’re a prospective student, this might also be a significant worry for you. I vividly recall my first day in student housing—I was so daunted that I spent the entire time in my room, too anxious to meet others. Nevertheless, fast forward to now, and I can firmly state that I’ve made some of the best friendships of my life.
The crucial lesson I absorbed? Take the initiative early on. Even if you feel unprepared, there will be numerous social events and chances to meet new people. Most importantly, just be yourself. With such a varied student community, you’re sure to encounter individuals who resonate with your interests and values.
### Adapting to Academic Demands
The shift from A-levels to university coursework presented another significant challenge. The increase in workload and complexity was substantial, particularly between the first and second terms. There were moments when I questioned my capabilities, especially when observing others studying rigorously. However, I soon came to understand that everyone was facing similar struggles—if I found a topic difficult, it’s likely others were as well.
My best recommendation? Don’t hesitate to seek assistance. Whether it’s from peers or professors, reaching out for help is one of the essential skills you should cultivate during your initial year.
### The Significance of Seeking Help
One aspect that genuinely impressed me was the extraordinary support available from the Materials Science department. The faculty truly wishes for students to thrive and are consistently open to discussing any issues we encounter. Although I didn’t make full use of the pastoral assistance until later in the year, I regret not utilizing it sooner.
Early in my journey, I took a bold step by becoming a year well-being representative, which enabled me to establish valuable connections with faculty members. This has proven to be invaluable. There are numerous ways to interact with staff, and engaging with them can significantly enhance your university experience. My primary takeaway? Make the most of the support offered—you can never have too much assistance.
### Concluding Thoughts
As I reflect on this past year, it’s clear that many of the worries I harbored before entering university were unfounded. Thanks to the support from staff and fellow students, I was able to tackle the challenges and truly benefit from my time here. Most importantly, I discovered that I was never alone, and enjoying university life is indeed possible even amid the demands of exams and deadlines.
To anyone embarking on this journey—embrace the difficulties, seek help, and seize every chance. You won’t regret it!