**Insights from My Initial Year in Materials Science and Engineering**
*Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)*
Ten months prior, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, fear, and uncertainty about what lay ahead. 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. Venturing into the unknown was not something I was used to, given my previous shyness and reserved nature. Reflecting back now, I realize that this academic year has been rich in personal development, challenges, and a lot of enjoyment! So, what has this year imparted to me, and where do I stand now?
One of the initial and most intimidating obstacles I encountered was forming friendships. This aspect is frequently regarded as one of the most daunting parts of starting university, and if you’re reading this as a future student, it might be a concern for you as well. On my first day of moving into my accommodation, a few days ahead of the term start, I spent the entire day sequestered in my room, too fearful to venture out and introduce myself. Fast forward to today, and I confidently assert that I’ve developed some of the finest friendships I’ve ever had, both within this university and my course. I’ve uncovered a second family here at Imperial, all beginning with casual conversations with peers who were experiencing similar feelings.
So, what have I discovered? I learned that it’s always advantageous to take that initial leap at the beginning of the year. If you’re feeling unprepared or uneasy, don’t stress! There will be numerous ice-breaker activities and chances to connect with others. Most importantly, I grasped that being authentic is crucial. With such a diverse array of individuals at the course and university, you’re bound to encounter those who click with you.
Another challenge I needed to navigate was managing the workload and the complexity of the material. There was certainly a noticeable increase from A-levels, and in many respects, an even larger leap from the first term to the second. Being introduced to this kind of environment can occasionally shake your confidence; you might observe others studying and feel inadequate. What guided me through this was the realization that everyone is experiencing similar challenges. If you’re struggling to grasp a concept, I can almost assure you that others are too. Therefore, seek assistance. This is arguably the most vital skill to cultivate in your first year—reach out to your classmates and faculty!
On the topic of faculty, the team in Materials Science is remarkable. They sincerely wish for your success and recognize that students encounter difficulties. They empathize and maintain ongoing communication throughout the year to address any issues. I didn’t fully take advantage of the pastoral support until later in the year, but I wish I had utilized it sooner. At the year’s outset, I took a leap by becoming a year well-being representative. This role enabled me to connect with the staff on a deeper level, which has been tremendously valuable. There are numerous opportunities to build rapport with faculty, and it’s one of the best investments you can make for yourself! My key takeaway from this aspect of university life is to leverage the support provided—you can never have too much!
In summary, this year has shown me that the anxious feelings surrounding the start and duration of university are often baseless and can be mitigated by the extensive support available from faculty and fellow students. It has demonstrated to me that I’m never alone, and it’s revealed how to balance enjoyment with the unavoidable pressures of exams and deadlines.
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**By** [Guest Blogger](https://blogs.imperial.ac.uk/student-blogs/author/bloggers/)
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