**Reflecting on My Inaugural Year in Materials Science and Engineering**
*Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)*
Ten months back, in October 2022, I was engulfed in feelings of anxiety, trepidation, and uncertainty regarding my future. I was on the verge of starting my adventure 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. For someone who had always been introverted and quiet, immersing myself in this fresh experience felt akin to leaping into deep waters. Now, as I reflect on my first academic year, I recognize it as a period of major personal development, challenges, and a lot of enjoyment. But what, specifically, did I gain from this experience, and how have I evolved since then?
### Building Connections: The Initial Major Hurdle
One of the most intimidating features of beginning university was forging friendships. If you’re an incoming student reading this, it’s probably a concern for you as well. On moving-in day, just a few days prior to the official start of the term, I spent the entire day isolated in my room, too afraid to venture out and meet others. Fast forward to today, and I can state with confidence that I’ve formed some of the most meaningful friendships of my life. At Imperial, I’ve discovered a second family, and it all commenced with a little small talk with individuals who were feeling just as I was.
So, what did I take away from this? I discovered that taking that initial plunge is essential. If you don’t feel prepared or at ease right away, that’s perfectly fine—there will be numerous ice-breakers and opportunities to socialize. And above all, remain true to yourself. With the diverse array of personalities and backgrounds present at the university, you’re sure to find others who connect with you.
### Confronting the Academic Load and Pressure
Another major challenge was adapting to the academic demands and the complexity of the material. There was certainly a marked increase in difficulty from A-levels, and the leap from the first term to the second felt even more drastic. Being thrust into such a demanding setting can at times swerve your confidence, especially when you witness others studying and begin to question your own skills. However, here’s the reality: everyone is encountering similar obstacles. If you find yourself having trouble grasping something, it’s likely that others are experiencing the same.
The most crucial lesson I absorbed in my first year was the importance of seeking assistance. Whether you reach out to peers or faculty, never shy away from asking for help. This straightforward action can significantly impact your ability to navigate academic obstacles.
### Faculty Support: An Essential Resource
On the topic of faculty, the professors in the Materials department are remarkable. They truly desire your success and understand the difficulties students encounter. Throughout the academic year, they maintained open lines of communication with us, addressing our questions and providing support. I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral resources until later in the year, but I wish I had accessed them earlier.
At the beginning of the year, I embraced the opportunity to become a well-being representative for my year. This position helped me connect better with the staff, which turned out to be invaluable. There are many avenues to engage with faculty, and doing so can greatly enhance your university journey. My key takeaway? Never hesitate to leverage the support that is available. There’s no such thing as too much help!
### Conclusion: Conquering Anxieties and Embracing University Experience
In summary, this year has shown me that the apprehension I experienced prior to and during university was mostly unfounded. With an array of support from both faculty and fellow students, I realized that I was never genuinely alone. More crucially, I learned how to strike a balance between enjoying life and dealing with the inevitable pressures of exams and deadlines.
As I look back, I take pride in how far I’ve progressed, and I’m eager to see what lies ahead as I advance in my pursuit of Materials Science and Engineering.
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*By [Guest Blogger](https://blogs.imperial.ac.uk/student-blogs/author/bloggers/)*
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