**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, uncertainty, and doubt regarding 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 someone who had always been introverted and reserved, embarking on this new journey felt daunting. Now, reflecting back, I realize it has been a year brimming with personal development, obstacles, and numerous unforgettable experiences. But what insights have I gained, and where do I find myself today?
### Conquering the Anxiety of Making Friends
One of the most significant obstacles I encountered at the onset of university was forging friendships. If you’re an incoming student, this might also be a concern for you. I vividly recall my first day settling into student housing—I stayed in my room the whole day, far too intimidated to venture out and meet new people. However, sitting here now, I can assert that I’ve formed some of the most meaningful friendships I’ve ever had.
I’ve discovered a second family here at Imperial, and it all began with casual chats with individuals who were experiencing similar feelings. My main takeaway? Take the plunge at the beginning of the year. If you don’t feel prepared, don’t fret—there will be ample icebreaker events and chances to meet others. Most importantly, be authentic. Given the diverse student population, you’re likely to connect with those who share your passions and principles.
### Adapting to the Academic Demands
Another significant challenge was adjusting to the workload and the heightened complexity of university-level studies. The transition from A-levels to university was substantial, and the shift from the first to the second term felt even more pronounced. It’s easy to feel daunted or question your capabilities when observing others studying with apparent ease.
What aided me during this period was recognizing that everyone is navigating similar circumstances. If something seems unclear to you, it’s likely others are grappling with it too. The best course of action is to seek assistance—whether from classmates or instructors. Learning to ask for help is one of the most important skills you can cultivate in your first year.
### The Value of Seeking Guidance
This leads me to another crucial insight: the remarkable support provided by the Materials Science department. The staff genuinely care about student success and are always willing to engage in discussions about any difficulties we encounter. They are sympathetic to students’ needs and maintain open lines of communication to tackle concerns.
I didn’t fully leverage the available pastoral support until the end of the academic year, and I wish I had discovered it earlier. Early on, I took the initiative to become a well-being representative for my cohort. This position helped me build rapport with faculty members, which proved to be extremely beneficial. There are numerous avenues to connect with faculty, and doing so can significantly improve your university experience. My suggestion? Utilize all the support resources at your disposal—you can never have too much assistance.
### Concluding Thoughts
In retrospect, this year has taught me that much of the anxiety I felt prior to and during the university experience was often unfounded. Multiple support systems exist, ranging from faculty to fellow students, to aid you in overcoming challenges. Most importantly, I’ve come to understand that I’m never alone. It is feasible to balance academic demands with social activities and personal health, and I’ve learned how to relish my university journey despite the unavoidable stress of exams and deadlines.
As you prepare to embark on your own university adventure, face the challenges head-on, take those leaps of faith, and embrace every opportunity. It’s a path of development, and you will emerge more resilient on the other side.