**Reflections on My Initial Year in Materials Science and Engineering**
*By Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)*
A year ago, in October 2022, I found myself consumed by anxiety, uncertainty, and skepticism about 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. Being naturally shy and reserved, embarking on this new journey felt quite daunting. Now, reflecting on the past year, I recognize it as a period filled with personal development, challenges, and numerous unforgettable moments. But what insights have I gained, and what is my current standing?
### Navigating the Anxiety of Friendship
One of the foremost challenges I encountered at the outset was forging new friendships. If you are an incoming student, this may be one of your primary concerns as well. On my inaugural day in the student residence, I was so daunted that I remained in my room all day, too anxious to meet others. Yet, as I sit here now, I can proudly assert that I’ve made some of the finest friends in my life. Imperial has truly become a second home to me, and it merely required stepping beyond my comfort zone and striking up conversations with those in similar situations.
The essential lesson I gleaned? Make that move early. Even if you don’t feel fully prepared, numerous icebreaker events and chances to meet new people will present themselves. Most crucially, be authentic—Imperial is peopled with a wealth of diverse individuals, and you’re sure to connect with those who resonate with your interests and values.
### Adapting to Academic Demands
Another significant obstacle was acclimating to the workload and the complexity of the material. The transition from A-levels to university was monumental, and moving from the first to the second term felt even more daunting. It’s easy to experience feelings of being overwhelmed or to question your abilities among highly motivated peers. Nevertheless, I quickly came to understand that everyone was navigating similar challenges. If I found some content tough to grasp, it was likely that others did as well.
The most crucial takeaway was recognizing the importance of asking for assistance. Whether from peers or instructors, seeking help made a tremendous impact. University is not about figuring everything out alone—teamwork and reaching out for guidance are imperative.
### The Value of Interaction with Faculty
One of the standout aspects of studying Materials Science at Imperial is the committed staff. They genuinely strive for student success and are always receptive to feedback and discussions around academic difficulties. Although I didn’t fully utilize the support services until later in the year, I wish I had engaged with them sooner.
At the year’s beginning, I took a bold step by becoming a well-being representative for my cohort. This position enabled me to connect with faculty members, which proved to be incredibly beneficial. There are numerous ways to interact with the academic staff, and engaging with them can significantly enrich your university experience. My biggest lesson? Utilize the support systems available to you—there’s no such thing as too much help!
### Concluding Thoughts
In hindsight, this year has demonstrated to me that the apprehension I felt prior to beginning university was largely unfounded. With a myriad of support structures in place, from faculty to fellow students, no one ever has to feel isolated. More importantly, I have learned to balance academic demands with the enjoyment of university life.
If you’re about to embark on your journey at Imperial, my straightforward advice is: embrace the experience, seek help when necessary, and don’t hesitate to take that first step. It’s a year filled with growth, knowledge, and creating memories that will endure a lifetime.