**Thoughts on My Initial Year Studying Materials Science and Engineering**
*By Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)*
Nearly ten months ago, in October 2022, I felt anxious, uncertain, and full of apprehension about what was to come. 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, and venturing into the unknown was intimidating, especially for someone like me, who has always been shy and introverted. Reflecting on this past year brings to light personal development, challenges, and many happy moments. But what have I discovered, and where do I find myself now?
### Conquering the Anxiety of Forming Friendships
One of the primary obstacles I encountered early was forging friendships. If you’re a new student, this concern may resonate with you. On my inaugural day in student housing, just prior to the start of the term, I spent the entire day in my room, too fearful to venture out and meet others. However, taking a step forward to today, I can proudly say that I’ve built some of the best friendships of my life. I’ve discovered a second family here at Imperial, and it all stemmed from a little small talk with individuals in similar circumstances.
So, what lessons did I take away? Firstly, taking that first step is always worthwhile. Even if you feel unprepared, numerous ice-breaker activities and chances to connect with others will arise. Secondly, being true to yourself is the best course of action. Given the diverse population of students, you’re sure to encounter others who resonate with your interests and values.
### Adapting to the Academic Demands
Another major challenge was adjusting to the workload and the heightened difficulty of the material. The transition from A-levels was stark, and the leap from the first term to the second was even larger. This change can be taxing on your self-esteem—you might observe others studying and begin to doubt your own skills.
What aided me through this was the understanding that everyone finds themselves in similar situations. If you’re struggling to grasp a concept, it’s likely that others are too. The most significant lesson I absorbed in my first year was the importance of seeking assistance—whether from classmates or faculty. Requesting help is not a display of weakness but rather an essential step towards thriving at university.
### The Value of Engaging with Faculty
One of the standout features of studying Materials Science at Imperial is the exceptional support from the faculty. They are genuinely invested in student success and are always eager to discuss the challenges we encounter. While I didn’t fully benefit from the pastoral support until later in the year, I regret not taking advantage of it sooner.
At the beginning of the year, I made a bold move by becoming a well-being representative for my year. This position enabled me to forge connections with faculty members, which turned out to be immensely beneficial. There are numerous avenues to establish rapport with professors and academic staff, which can significantly enrich your university journey. My key takeaway? Utilize the support offered—there’s no such thing as too much help!
### Closing Thoughts
Reflecting back, this year has shown me that the trepidation I experienced before commencing university—along with the anxious moments here—was often unwarranted. An array of support systems exists, from staff to peers, ensuring that no one has to face difficulties in isolation. Most crucially, I’ve learned how to balance academic demands with enjoying life at university.
If you’re about to embark on your adventure at Imperial, my advice is straightforward: take that leap, seek help when necessary, and immerse yourself in the experiences. You’ll evolve in unexpected ways, and before long, you’ll find yourself looking back on an amazing first year, just as I am now.