**Thoughts 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. I was on the brink of starting 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 someone who has always been introverted and cautious, immersing myself in a brand new atmosphere felt intimidating. Reflecting now, I see a year brimming with personal advancements, obstacles, and numerous unforgettable moments. So, what insights have I gained, and what is my current position?
### Conquering the Anxiety of Friendships
One of the primary obstacles I encountered was the challenge of forming friendships. If you’re an upcoming student, this may be a concern for you as well. I vividly recall my first day settling into student housing—overwhelmed by the notion of meeting new individuals, I spent an entire day in my room.
However, as time progressed, I slowly ventured out of my comfort zone. Today, I can assertively state that I’ve formed some of the finest friendships of my life. Imperial has transformed into a second home for me, and all it took were a few straightforward dialogues with others feeling similarly.
What did I glean from this experience? Firstly, taking that first step is invariably worthwhile. Even if you don’t feel prepared, there will be numerous icebreaker activities and chances to connect with others. Secondly, the most beneficial thing you can do is to be authentic. With such a varied student population, you’re sure to encounter individuals who align with your interests and principles.
### Adapting to Academic Demands
Another significant challenge was acclimating to the workload and the complexity of the course content. There was a clear transition from A-levels, and an even more considerable leap from the first term to the second. This shift wasn’t always smooth, and at times, I faced self-doubt. Observing others studying effectively made me question my own abilities.
What assisted me in overcoming this was recognizing that everyone was navigating similar waters. If I struggled with a concept, it was likely that my peers were as well. The crucial lesson I took away was the importance of asking for assistance—be it from fellow students or professors. Seeking help is a vital component of the learning process, not an indication of weakness.
### The Value of Faculty Support
One of the outstanding features of studying Materials Science at Imperial is the exceptional support offered by the faculty. They sincerely aspire for students to thrive and are always receptive to feedback. Throughout the year, they kept in regular contact with us, ensuring our voices were heard.
Although I didn’t fully engage with pastoral support until later in the year, I regret not doing so sooner. Early on, I took the initiative to become a year well-being representative, which enabled me to develop connections with staff members. This opportunity was invaluable, and I strongly encourage students to seize the many chances available to engage with faculty. My key takeaway? Never hesitate to tap into the resources at your disposal—there’s no such thing as an excess of support.
### Concluding Thoughts
In hindsight, this year has revealed to me that the apprehension I felt before and during university was largely unfounded. There exists a multitude of support structures, from staff to fellow students, ready to assist in smoothing over the transition. Most importantly, I’ve realized that I’m never genuinely alone. In spite of the demands of exams and deadlines, I have discovered ways to savor my university experience and maximize my time here.
For anyone embarking on their journey at Imperial, my straightforward advice is: take that initial leap, seek help when necessary, and fully embrace the journey. You’ll develop in ways you never imagined.