**Thoughts on My Initial Year in Materials Science and Engineering**
*By Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)*
Nearly ten months ago, in October 2022, I confronted a wave of nerves, uncertainty, and apprehension about the path ahead. I was about to embark on 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 somewhat introverted, entering this new phase felt daunting. Reflecting on that time now, I recognize a year rich in personal development, trials, and numerous unforgettable moments. But what insights have I gained, and how do I feel today?
### Conquering the Anxiety of Making Connections
A significant challenge I encountered early on was the quest to forge friendships. If you are an incoming student, this may also be one of your foremost worries. On my initial day in the student residence, I was so anxious that I spent the whole day in my room, far too apprehensive to introduce myself to anyone. However, sitting here today, I can assertively say that I’ve formed some of the most amazing friendships of my life.
I’ve discovered a second family here at Imperial, and all it required was venturing outside my comfort zone and initiating small talk with others who were in similar circumstances. The core lesson? Make that leap early. Even if you don’t feel prepared, there will be a multitude of ice-breaking activities and social gatherings to assist you in connecting with others. Most crucially, remain authentic—Imperial is a melting pot of diverse individuals, and you’re sure to find others who resonate with your interests and values.
### Adapting to the Academic Demands
Another considerable challenge was acclimatizing to the heightened workload and difficulty of university-level coursework. The transition from A-levels was substantial, and the shift from the first to second term felt even more pronounced. It’s easy to feel inundated and question your capabilities, especially when witnessing others studying and appearing more self-assured.
What aided me in persevering was the understanding that everyone is navigating similar challenges. If something is unclear, it’s likely that others are grappling with it as well. The best course of action is to seek assistance—whether from classmates or tutors. Learning to reach out for support is one of the most essential skills to cultivate in your first year.
### The Significance of Engaging with Faculty
One of the most delightful surprises of my inaugural year was the exceptional support from the Materials Science department. The staff genuinely wish for students to thrive and are consistently receptive to feedback and conversations about any difficulties we encounter.
While I didn’t fully take advantage of pastoral support until later in the year, I wish I had done so earlier. At the beginning of the year, I decided to take a step forward and became a well-being representative for my cohort. This role enabled me to foster connections with staff members, which turned out to be tremendously advantageous. There are many ways to engage with faculty, and doing so can significantly enrich your university experience. My primary takeaway? Utilize the support that’s available—you can never have too much assistance!
### Concluding Thoughts
As I reflect on the past year, I’ve learned that the anxiety I felt prior to and during university was frequently unwarranted. There are numerous support systems available, from staff to fellow students, to aid you in navigating obstacles. Most importantly, I’ve discovered that I am never isolated and that enjoying university life while handling exam pressures and deadlines is entirely feasible.
For anyone about to commence their adventure at Imperial, my advice is straightforward: take risks, seek assistance, and fully embrace the experience. You’ll evolve in ways you’d never imagined, and before long, you’ll find yourself reminiscing about an extraordinary first year.