**Reflections on My Inaugural Year in Materials Science and Engineering**
*By Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)*
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, uncertainty, and self-doubt as I geared up 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. Having always been somewhat shy and introverted, stepping into this new phase of my life felt daunting. Reflecting on the past year now, I recognize it as a period of personal development, challenges, and unforgettable memories. So, what have I discovered, and what is my current standing?
### Conquering the Anxiety of Making Connections
One of the primary hurdles I encountered early on was forming friendships. If you are an incoming student, this may also be a significant worry for you. On my first day at the residence, the thought of meeting new people made me so anxious that I spent the entire day sequestered in my room. However, looking at where I am today, I can proudly affirm that I’ve cultivated some of the most meaningful friendships I’ve ever had.
The essential takeaway? Take that step forward. Even if you feel unprepared, there will be ample icebreaker activities and occasions to connect with fellow students. Most importantly, stay true to yourself. With such a diverse mix of students, you’re sure to find people who resonate with your interests and values.
### Navigating the Academic Demands
Adjusting from A-levels to university-level studies presented another significant challenge. The academic workload was noticeably heavier, and the transition from the first to the second term was particularly grueling. At times, the pressure felt intense, and I questioned my capabilities, especially when observing others who seemed to study with ease.
What assisted me in overcoming this? Remembering that we all share similar experiences. If you find something challenging, it’s likely that others are facing the same difficulties. The best course of action is to seek assistance—be it from your classmates or the academic staff. Asking for help is not a mark of weakness; it’s a crucial skill for achieving success.
### The Value of Pursuing Assistance
One of the most beneficial elements of my first year was the remarkable support from the Materials department staff. They genuinely worry about students’ well-being and are always receptive to input. Although I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support until later in the year, I wish I had taken advantage of it earlier.
Initially, I took the plunge and became a student well-being representative. This position enabled me to forge connections with staff members, which turned out to be immensely rewarding. There are various avenues to collaborate with faculty, and engaging with them can significantly enrich your university experience. My main lesson? Make the most of the support that’s available—you can never receive too much assistance.
### Final Thoughts
Reflecting on the past year, I’ve learned that many of the apprehensions I held prior to starting university were unfounded. A wealth of support is accessible, both from faculty and fellow students. I’ve realized that I’m never truly isolated and that it’s feasible to harmonize academic responsibilities with enjoyment and personal development.
If you are about to embark on your university journey, my straightforward advice is this: embrace the experience, seek help when necessary, and above all, savor the adventure.
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**By:** [Guest Blogger](https://blogs.imperial.ac.uk/student-blogs/author/bloggers/)
**Categories:** Uncategorised
**Tags:** [Courses](https://blogs.imperial.ac.uk/student-blogs/tag/courses/), [Featured](https://blogs.imperial.ac.uk/student-blogs/tag/featured/), [First Year](https://blogs.imperial.ac.uk/student-blogs/tag/first-year/), [Imperial College London](https://blogs.imperial.ac.uk/student-blogs/tag/imperial-college-london/)