**Thoughts on My Initial Year in Materials Science and Engineering**
*By Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)*
Ten months ago, during October 2022, I was engulfed in nerves, uncertainty, and doubt about the future. I was on the verge of commencing 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. As a naturally shy and reserved person, entering this new phase felt daunting. Reflecting on the past year, I recognize it as a period of personal development, obstacles, and amazing experiences. So, what insights have I gained, and what is my position today?
### Conquering the Anxiety of Making Connections
One of my primary initial obstacles was forming friendships. If you’re a future student, this may be a concern for you as well. On my first day in student housing, I spent the whole day in my room, too afraid to go out and introduce myself. However, as I sit here now, I can assertively state that I’ve formed some of the best friendships of my life. Imperial has turned into a second family for me, and all it required was a few straightforward conversations with others in similar situations.
So, what did I discover? Taking that initial step at the start of the year is always beneficial. If you don’t feel prepared immediately, don’t fret—there are numerous ice-breaker events and chances to engage with others. Most crucially, be authentic. With such a varied student population, you’re sure to find individuals who align with your interests and values.
### Adapting to Academic Challenges
Another significant obstacle was getting used to the workload and the heightened complexity of the course material. The transition from A-levels was quite striking, and the leap from the first to the second term was even more substantial. It’s easy to feel inundated or question your capabilities, especially when you observe others studying rigorously. Nevertheless, one of the key lessons I gained was that everyone faces similar struggles. If you’re having difficulty grasping something, it’s likely that others are too.
My best piece of advice? Don’t hesitate to ask for assistance. This is one of the most essential skills to cultivate during your first year. Whether it’s reaching out to your classmates or seeking advice from professors, don’t shy away from asking questions.
### The Significance of Seeking Assistance
This leads me to my next point—the remarkable support provided by the Materials Science department. The staff are genuinely invested in student success and comprehend the challenges we encounter. They maintain open lines of communication throughout the academic year and are always ready to lend a hand.
I didn’t fully utilize pastoral support until the year’s end, but I wish I had started earlier. At the beginning of the year, I took a bold step by becoming a well-being representative for my cohort. This position enabled me to foster relationships with staff members, which turned out to be invaluable. There are numerous ways to connect with faculty, and doing so can significantly enrich your university experience. My main takeaway? Utilize the available support—there’s no such thing as too much help!
### Concluding Thoughts
In retrospect, this year has shown me that the anxiety I experienced before beginning university was mostly unwarranted. There are abundant support systems available, from staff to fellow students, ensuring that no one has to navigate this journey alone. I’ve learned to balance academic demands with enjoyment, and I’ve developed in ways I never anticipated.
If you’re about to embark on your university adventure, embrace the challenges, take those initial steps, and remember—you’re never solitary in this experience.
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**By [Guest Blogger](https://blogs.imperial.ac.uk/student-blogs/author/bloggers/)**
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