**Reflecting 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 anxiety, fear, and uncertainty regarding the future. I was on the brink of starting my degree 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) as a first-year student. As someone who has always been shy and introspective, the thought of immersing myself in university life felt intimidating. Now, reflecting back, I recognize a year filled with personal development, obstacles, and a significant amount of enjoyment! But what insights have I gained, and what is my current standing?
One of the earliest and most daunting hurdles I encountered was forming friendships. This is a concern that many incoming students face, and I was no different. On my first day in student accommodation, just days before classes commenced, I spent the whole day tucked away in my room, too anxious to step out and introduce myself. Fast forward to the present, and I can proudly state that I’ve cultivated some of the best friendships I’ve ever known, both within my program and at the university. I’ve discovered a second family here at Imperial, which all began with casual conversations with others in similar situations.
So, what have I discovered? I’ve learned that taking risks at the beginning of the year is always beneficial. If you don’t feel prepared or at ease initially, don’t fret—there are numerous ice-breaking activities and chances to meet new people. Most importantly, I realized that being true to yourself is essential. With such a diverse group of individuals across the program and university, you are sure to find those who align with your interests and values.
Another challenge I encountered was adapting to the academic workload and the complexity of the material. There was indeed a significant leap from A-levels, and an even larger transition from the first term to the second. Being thrust into such a setting can undermine your confidence, particularly when you observe others studying and feel as though you’re lagging behind. However, one thing that supported me was the reminder that everyone is experiencing similar challenges. If you’re struggling to grasp a concept, it’s likely that others are too. Therefore, do not hesitate to ask for assistance. This may be the most crucial lesson I acquired during my first year—don’t shy away from seeking guidance from both your peers and faculty.
Speaking of faculty, the teaching team in the Materials department is exceptional. They truly wish for your success and recognize that students encounter difficulties. Throughout the year, they kept lines of communication open regarding any challenges we faced. I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support until the end of the year, but I regret not doing so earlier. At the beginning of the year, I took a bold step by becoming a well-being representative for my cohort. This position allowed me to foster relationships with the staff, which proved incredibly beneficial. There are numerous ways to engage with faculty, and doing so can significantly enrich your university experience. My key takeaway here is to leverage the support available to you—you can never have too much help!
In conclusion, this year has made it clear to me that the anxiety I experienced before and during university was mostly unfounded. With the extensive support available from both faculty and fellow students, I was never truly alone. I’ve also discovered how to enjoy myself while balancing the unavoidable stress of exams and deadlines.
By Dawson La
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