**Reflecting on My Initial Year in Materials Science and Engineering**
*By Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)*
Ten months prior, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with nerves, uncertainty, and excitement as I geared up to embark on my adventure 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. Entering the unknown felt intimidating, particularly for someone like me who has typically been more reserved. Reflecting on the past year, I can see it has been filled with personal development, challenges, and remarkable experiences. But what insights have I gained, and what is my current standing?
### Conquering the Anxiety of Forming Friendships
One of the biggest obstacles I encountered early on was forging friendships. If you’re an incoming student, this might also be a concern for you. On my first day at student housing, I felt so daunted that I spent the entire day in my room, too anxious to meet others. However, fast forward to today, and I can assert that I’ve made some of the most meaningful friendships of my life.
What’s the critical lesson I took away? Make the move. Even if you feel unsure, there will be ample icebreaker events and chances to connect with others. Most importantly, be true to yourself. With such a varied student population, you will surely find individuals who resonate with your interests and principles.
### Adapting to the Increased Academic Demands
Another significant challenge was adjusting to the heightened workload and complexity of university-level material. The transition from A-levels was substantial, and moving from the first term to the second proved to be even tougher. It’s easy to become overwhelmed, especially when you witness others studying and begin to second-guess your own abilities.
What aided me in navigating this? Keeping in mind that I wasn’t the only one facing difficulties. If I had trouble grasping a concept, there was a good chance that others were in the same boat. The best piece of advice I can offer is to reach out for assistance—whether from classmates or instructors. Asking for help is not a sign of inadequacy; it’s one of the most crucial skills you can cultivate during your first year.
### The Value of Staff Support
One of the most reassuring elements of my experience has been the outstanding support from the Materials Science department. The staff genuinely care about students’ success and are always receptive to feedback. They recognize the challenges we encounter and actively strive to assist us.
Although I didn’t fully engage with pastoral support until later in the year, I wish I had started sooner. Taking on the role of a year well-being representative enabled me to establish vital connections with the staff. There are numerous avenues to engage with lecturers and support personnel, and doing so can significantly enhance your university experience. My foremost takeaway? Utilize the resources at your disposal—you can never have too much support.
### Final Thoughts
Reflecting on my first year, I’ve come to realize that many of the anxieties I felt before entering university were unfounded. Support is always accessible, whether from staff or peers. Most importantly, I’ve discovered that it’s feasible to strike a balance between academic hardships and personal enjoyment.
For those getting ready to begin university, my advice is straightforward: embrace the journey, seek help when necessary, and remember that you are never alone in this process.