**Thoughts on My Initial Year in Materials Science and Engineering**
*By Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)*
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with nerves, uncertainty, and doubts regarding what was to come. I was on the verge 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 somewhat introverted and reserved, embarking on this new journey felt daunting. Reflecting on the past year, I see a time of personal development, obstacles, and unforgettable experiences. But what insights have I gained, and where do I find myself today?
### Conquering the Anxiety of Forming Friendships
One of the most significant obstacles I encountered at the outset was forming friendships. If you are a future student, this may be one of your primary worries as well. On my first day settling into student housing, I spent a whole day secluded in my room, too frightened to step out and introduce myself. However, looking at today, I can proudly say that I’ve formed some of the most meaningful friendships of my life.
Imperial has truly become a second home, and it all began with brief conversations with others who were in a similar situation. The greatest lesson I learned? Take that initial step early. Even if you feel unprepared, there will be an abundance of icebreaker events and opportunities to connect with new people. Most crucially, remain authentic. With such a varied student population, you’re sure to encounter individuals who resonate with your interests and principles.
### Adapting to the Academic Demands
Another significant challenge was adjusting to the workload and the heightened complexity of the material. The transition from A-levels to university was substantial, and the shift from the first to second term was even more pronounced. It’s easy to become overwhelmed or question your skills when observing others who seem more assured in their studies.
What aided me through this phase was the recognition that everyone is experiencing similar struggles. If something doesn’t make sense to you, it’s likely that others are grappling with it as well. The most effective action you can take is to seek assistance—be it from your colleagues or the teaching staff. Learning how to ask for help is one of the most essential skills you can acquire during your first year.
### The Significance of Faculty Support
On the subject of support, the staff within the Materials department are remarkable. They genuinely care about students’ success and recognize the challenges we encounter. Throughout the year, they maintained open lines of communication, addressing our issues and providing guidance.
I didn’t fully engage with the available pastoral support until later in the year, and I regret not taking advantage of it sooner. One of the best choices I made was becoming a year well-being representative. This role enabled me to connect with staff members, which turned out to be incredibly rewarding. There are numerous ways to interact with faculty, and doing so can substantially enrich your university experience. My key takeaway? Utilize the resources available—you can never have too much assistance.
### Concluding Thoughts
In retrospect, this year has shown me that the apprehension I experienced before starting university—and even during—was frequently unwarranted. The backing from both staff and fellow students was truly impactful. I’ve learned that I’m never genuinely alone, and I’ve figured out how to juggle academic demands with pleasure and enjoyment.
If you are on the verge of beginning university, understand that challenges will arise, but so will fantastic opportunities for personal development. Take that leap, seek assistance, and fully embrace the experience—you’ll be glad you did.