**Reflecting on My Initial Year in Materials Science and Engineering**
*Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)*
Ten months ago, back in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, apprehension, and uncertainty regarding what lay ahead. I was on the verge of beginning my experience as a first-year student 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. Having always been a somewhat introverted individual, jumping into this new phase felt quite intimidating. Now, as I reflect, I realize this academic year has offered tremendous personal development, numerous challenges, and a great deal of enjoyment. But what exactly have I gained from this year, and what is my current position?
### Surmounting the Anxiety of Making Friends
One of the most daunting obstacles I encountered early on was forming friendships. If you are a prospective student reading this, you might share similar feelings. On my first day settling into student residence, I spent the entire time sequestered in my room, far too anxious to venture out and meet new people. Fast forward to now, and I can proudly state that I’ve forged some of the deepest friendships of my life. Here at Imperial, I’ve found a second family, all it took was stepping beyond my comfort zone and initiating small conversations with others who were just as unfamiliar with the experience as I was.
So, what did I discover? The trick is to take that initial leap of faith early. If you’re feeling hesitant or shy at first, don’t fret! There will be numerous ice-breaking sessions and events aimed at helping you engage with others. Most importantly, just remain authentic. With such a varied mix of individuals throughout the course and university, you’re sure to encounter those who resonate with your interests and values.
### Confronting the Academic Hurdles
Another considerable challenge was adapting to the academic demands and the heightened complexity of the material. There was certainly a clear leap from A-level studies, and an even more significant jump from the first term to the following one. Being thrust into such an environment can occasionally unsettle your confidence, particularly when you observe others studying and feel as though you’re lagging behind. However, here’s the reality: everyone is navigating the same path. If you find something difficult to grasp, chances are, many others are grappling with it as well. The crucial lesson I acquired in my first year was the importance of seeking assistance—whether from classmates or faculty. Don’t hesitate to ask for help; it can truly make a difference.
### Assistance from the Materials Department
This leads me to my next point: the personnel in the Materials department are exceptional. They genuinely desire to see you thrive and are aware of the hurdles faced by students. Throughout the academic year, they kept in close contact with us, addressing our worries and providing support. I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support until later in the year, and I wish I had taken advantage of it sooner.
At the beginning of the year, I made the decision to become a well-being representative for my cohort. This position enabled me to cultivate relationships with faculty members, which has been invaluable. There are numerous ways to connect with the staff, and I highly encourage doing so. My main takeaway from this experience is to capitalize on the support that is accessible to you. You can never have too many resources!
### Concluding Thoughts
In conclusion, this year has revealed to me that much of the anxiety I experienced—both prior to and during university—was often unwarranted. With the extensive range of support resources available from both faculty and fellow students, assistance is always within reach. I’ve come to realize that I’m never truly alone, and I’ve learned how to balance the enjoyment of university life with the inevitable 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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