**Reflecting on My Initial Year in Materials Science and Engineering**
*By Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)*
Ten months prior, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, uncertainty, and skepticism about the future. As a first-year student about to embark on my studies 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), I was stepping into uncharted territory. Venturing into new situations had never been my forte, and the prospect of university was intimidating. Looking back now, I see a year brimming with personal development, obstacles, and remarkable experiences. So, what insights have I gained, and where do I find myself today?
### Conquering the Anxiety of Making Connections
One of the primary hurdles I encountered at the outset was forming friendships. If you’re a new student considering this path, this may also be one of your chief worries. On my inaugural day in student housing, just prior to the term kicking off, I spent the entire day in my room, too nervous to go outside and introduce myself. However, reflecting on this now, I can assert with confidence that I’ve forged some of the best friendships of my life. Imperial has transformed into a second home, and all it took was a few straightforward conversations with individuals experiencing similar feelings.
So, what’s the takeaway? I came to understand that taking the first initiative is always worthwhile. Even if you don’t feel prepared, there will be ample ice-breaker events and avenues to meet new faces. Most importantly, I learned that authenticity is crucial. With such a diverse student population, you’re bound to encounter individuals who resonate with your interests and beliefs.
### Adapting to Academic Demands
Another significant obstacle was adjusting to the workload and the heightened complexity of the material. The leap from A-levels to university was substantial, and the shift from the first to the second term was even more pronounced. It’s easy to feel inundated or question your capabilities, especially when observing others who seem more engaged and confident.
What aided me in overcoming this was the acknowledgment that everyone is navigating similar challenges. If you’re grappling with a topic, chances are others are facing the same struggle. The best approach is to seek assistance—whether from classmates or instructors. Learning to ask for help is one of the most essential skills you can cultivate in your first year.
### The Value of Seeking Help
This leads me to another crucial lesson: the remarkable support network within the Materials department. The staff are genuinely invested in student success and are always available to lend a hand. They recognize the obstacles we incur and keep lines of communication open throughout the academic year.
I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support until late in the year, but I wish I had embraced it earlier. At the beginning of the year, I took the plunge by becoming a well-being representative for my cohort. This position enabled me to build connections with staff members, which turned out to be tremendously beneficial. There are countless ways to foster relationships with faculty, and doing so can significantly enhance your university experience. My recommendation? Take full advantage of the support offered to you—there’s no such thing as too much assistance!
### Concluding Thoughts
In retrospect, this year has illustrated to me that the fears and worries I harbored prior to commencing university were largely misplaced. With robust support from staff and peers, I navigated the challenges and ended up relishing my time at Imperial. Most significantly, I’ve realized that I’m never alone and that balancing academic responsibilities with enjoyment and personal development is indeed achievable.
If you’re on the brink of starting your university journey, embrace the opportunity, take risks, and don’t hesitate to ask for assistance. You might be astonished at the extent of your growth throughout the process.