**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 anxiety, doubt, and uncertainty regarding the future. I was on the brink 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 someone who has always been introverted and cautious, embarking on this new journey felt daunting. Reflecting back now, I recognize a year filled with personal development, hurdles, and a wealth of unforgettable moments. But what insights have I gained, and what is my position today?
### Conquering the Anxiety of Making Connections
A significant challenge I encountered early on was forming friendships. If you’re an incoming student, this might also be a top concern for you. On my first day in student housing, just before the semester commenced, I spent an entire day sequestered in my room, too shy to venture out and introduce myself.
Fast forward to now, and I can proudly state that I’ve made some of the most incredible friends I could ask for. I’ve cultivated a second family here at Imperial, and it all began with stepping outside my comfort zone and engaging in casual conversations with others who were equally new.
So, what takeaway do I have? Taking that initial step always proves worthwhile. If you don’t feel prepared at once, that’s completely fine—numerous ice-breaker activities and opportunities to meet new people will arise. Above all, be authentic. With such a varied student community, you’re sure to encounter others who share your interests and principles.
### Adapting to Academic Demands
Another significant obstacle was getting used to the workload and the heightened complexity of the material. The transition from A-levels to university was profound, and the shift from the first to the second term felt even more pronounced. It’s easy to question your abilities when observing others studying and feeling like you’re lagging behind.
What helped me to persevere was the understanding that everyone is experiencing similar challenges. If something is unclear, it’s likely that others are grappling with it as well. The best approach is to seek assistance—whether from classmates or instructors. Learning to ask for help is among the most important skills you can acquire in your first year.
### The Significance of Staff Support
A standout aspect of my journey has been the amazing backing from the Materials Science department. The staff truly want students to thrive and are always receptive to feedback. They recognize the difficulties faced by students and maintain ongoing communication to handle any issues.
I didn’t fully take advantage of the pastoral support offered until the conclusion of the year, but I wish I had engaged with it earlier. Early in the year, I took a chance by becoming a well-being representative for my year. This role enabled me to foster connections with faculty members, which turned out to be immensely beneficial. There are numerous ways to connect with faculty, and doing so can profoundly enhance your university journey. My main takeaway? Utilize the available support—you can never have too much assistance!
### Concluding Thoughts
In retrospect, this year has shown me that many of the anxieties I held prior to embarking on my university journey were unfounded. There are abundant support networks, from faculty to fellow students, ready to help you tackle any challenges. Most importantly, I’ve learned that I am never truly alone, and it is possible to manage academic challenges while enjoying a rewarding university experience.
If you’re about to embark on your journey at Imperial, seize the opportunities in front of you, seek help when necessary, and most importantly—savor the experience!