**Reflections on My Initial Year in Materials Science and Engineering**
*Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)*
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with nerves, apprehension, and uncertainty regarding the future. I was about to begin my path 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. As someone who has always been quite shy and introverted, diving into this new phase felt intimidating. Now, reflecting on the past academic year, I consider it a period of significant personal development, challenges, and a lot of enjoyment. So, what insights have I gained, and what is my current status?
### Building Connections: The Primary Challenge
One of the most anxiety-inducing challenges I encountered was forging friendships. For many incoming students, this is a major worry when beginning university. On my initial day moving into my accommodation, mere days before the semester commenced, I spent the entire time sequestered in my room, far too daunted to venture out and meet others. Fast forward to today, and I can assert that I’ve formed some of the best friendships I’ve ever experienced. I’ve discovered a second family here at Imperial, and it all began with casual conversations with others who were experiencing the same feelings.
So, what did I take away from this? I came to understand that taking initiative right at the beginning of the year is essential. Even if you don’t feel prepared or at ease, fear not—there are numerous ice-breaker events and chances to socialize. Most importantly, I discovered that authenticity is vital. With such a diverse community of students, you’re sure to connect with those who share your interests and philosophies.
### Managing the Workload and Academic Challenges
Another major challenge was adapting to the workload and the complexity of the material. There was certainly a significant leap from A-levels, and the shift from the first term to the second proved to be even more demanding. Being in such an intense academic atmosphere can sometimes undermine your self-confidence, especially when you observe others studying and feel like you’re falling behind.
What assisted me in navigating this was the reminder that everyone is facing similar struggles. If you’re having difficulty with something, it’s likely that others are too. The most crucial lesson I grasped in my first year was the importance of seeking help—whether from classmates or faculty. Don’t be afraid to reach out when you require assistance.
### Assistance from the Staff: An Essential Resource
This leads me to my next point: the staff in the Materials department are remarkable. They sincerely want you to thrive and understand the obstacles that students encounter. Throughout the year, they maintained open lines of communication with us, addressing our concerns and providing support. While I didn’t fully take advantage of the pastoral support until later in the year, I wish I had sought it sooner.
At the beginning of the year, I took a bold step and became a well-being representative for my cohort. This position enabled me to better connect with the staff, which was invaluable. There are numerous opportunities to engage with faculty, and cultivating those relationships can significantly enhance your university experience. My key takeaway here is to capitalize on the available support—you can never have too much assistance!
### Concluding Thoughts: Conquering Anxiety and Embracing University Life
In conclusion, this year has shown me that the anxiety I felt before and during university was mostly unfounded. With the myriad of support options offered by both staff and fellow students, I learned that I was never truly on my own. Most importantly, I uncovered how to balance having a good time with the unavoidable pressures of exams and deadlines.
By [Guest Blogger](https://blogs.imperial.ac.uk/student-blogs/author/bloggers/)
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