**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 brimming with nerves, uncertainty, and doubt regarding what was to come. I was on the verge of starting my first year studying [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 chapter felt like a daunting task. Reflecting upon it now, I recognize a year characterized by personal development, challenges, and many unforgettable moments. But what insights have I gained, and what is my current status?
### Conquering the Anxiety of Making Connections
One of the most significant obstacles I encountered was forming new friendships. If you’re an incoming student, this might be a major concern for you as well. On my initial day in the dorms, I felt so nervous that I ended up spending the whole day in my room, too anxious to introduce myself to anyone. Yet, here I am today, confidently stating that I’ve formed some of the best friendships of my life.
I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, and all it required was stepping beyond my comfort zone and engaging in casual conversations with those who were experiencing the same feelings. My key takeaway? Initiate those early connections. If you feel unprepared, don’t stress—there will be abundant ice-breaking events and chances to meet others. Most crucially, just be yourself. With such a varied student community, you will undoubtedly find individuals who align with your values and interests.
### Adapting to Academic Demands
Another significant challenge was adjusting to the workload and the complexity of the course material. The transition from A-levels to university was considerable, and the shift from the first to the second term was even more demanding. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed and question your own capabilities, particularly when you observe others studying and seemingly grasping concepts with ease.
What helped me navigate this was acknowledging that everyone is facing similar struggles. If you find it difficult to comprehend something, it’s likely that others are too. The most beneficial action you can take is to seek assistance—whether from peers or professors. Developing the skill to ask for support is truly invaluable during your first year.
### The Value of Staff Support
Speaking of assistance, the faculty in the Materials department are exceptional. They genuinely care about our success and fully understand the hurdles we encounter. Throughout the year, they kept lines of communication open, ensuring our worries were acknowledged.
I didn’t fully utilize the available pastoral support until the latter part of the year, but I wish I had discovered it sooner. One of my best decisions was to become a year well-being representative. This position enabled me to forge connections with faculty, which turned out to be extremely beneficial. There are numerous ways to engage with staff, and doing so can significantly enrich your university experience. My recommendation? Maximize the support that’s accessible—you can never receive too much help!
### Final Thoughts
As I reflect on my first year, I recognize that the anxiety I experienced prior to and during university was often unwarranted. There are numerous support systems available, from academic staff to fellow students, ensuring that no one ever needs to feel isolated. Most importantly, I’ve discovered how to balance academic pressures with the enjoyment of university life.
If you’re set to embark on your own university journey, my advice is straightforward: take that plunge, seek help when necessary, and fully immerse yourself in the experience. You’ll develop in ways you never anticipated, and you might just uncover a second family along the journey.