**Reflections on My Initial Year in Materials Science and Engineering**
*By Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)*
Ten months back, in October 2022, I was brimming with anxiety, uncertainty, and skepticism regarding the path ahead of me. Approaching 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 was a momentous step. As someone who had previously been timid and introverted, stepping into this fresh experience felt rather daunting. Now that I’ve had time to reflect, I see a year rich with personal development, obstacles, and a lot of enjoyable moments. But what insights have I gained, and what is my current position?
### Conquering the Anxiety of Forming Friendships
One of the foremost challenges I faced was forging new friendships. If you’re a prospective student, this may also be a considerable worry for you. On my first day in student housing, I was so overwhelmed that I ended up spending the entire day in my room, too apprehensive to introduce myself to others. However, looking at where I am now, I can proudly say that I’ve cultivated some of the most meaningful friendships I’ve ever had.
The essential lesson I discovered? Take that initial step early. Even if you’re not feeling prepared, there are plenty of icebreakers and social occasions designed to foster connections. Most importantly, just be yourself—Imperial is a melting pot of diverse individuals, and you are sure to find people who resonate with your interests and values.
### Navigating the Academic Shift
Another significant challenge was acclimating to the academic demands and workload. There was a clear increase from A-levels, with an even steeper climb from the first to the second term. At times, witnessing others study left me questioning my own adequacy.
What aided me in this journey? A constant reminder that everyone else was experiencing similar feelings. If I was struggling to comprehend something, it was likely that others were too. The most beneficial step I took was asking for assistance—whether from classmates or faculty. Learning to seek help is one of the most crucial skills to cultivate during your first year.
### The Value of Support from Faculty
Speaking of assistance, the staff within the Materials Science department have been outstanding. They sincerely wish for students to thrive and are always receptive to input. I didn’t truly leverage the pastoral support until later in the academic year, but I regret not doing so earlier.
At the beginning of the year, I made an important decision by becoming a well-being representative for my cohort. This opportunity enabled me to establish connections with staff members, which turned out to be incredibly advantageous. There are numerous ways to foster relationships with faculty, and doing so can significantly enhance your university experience. My most significant takeaway? Utilize the support available—you can never have too much help.
### Concluding Thoughts
This year has shown me that much of the anxiety I had prior to starting university was largely unwarranted. There exists a plethora of support systems, from staff to fellow students, ready to assist you in overcoming the challenges ahead. Above all, I’ve realized that I’m never truly alone and that it’s feasible to harmonize academic demands with a rewarding university life.
If you are about to embark on your own journey at Imperial, my guidance is straightforward: take the plunge, seek help when necessary, and seize every opportunity that comes your way.