### Thoughts on My Initial Year in Materials Science and Engineering
*By Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)*
Almost a year ago, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, uncertainty, and apprehensions regarding the future. I was on the verge of commencing 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 quiet, embarking on this new phase of my life felt daunting. Reflecting on it now, I recognize a year filled with personal development, obstacles, and memorable moments. So, what insights have I gained, and how do I perceive my current situation?
#### Conquering the Anxiety of Forming Friendships
A significant challenge I encountered was the task of making new friends. If you are an incoming student, this may be one of your primary worries as well. On my very first day in student housing, I was so daunted by the prospect of meeting new individuals that I opted to remain in my room all day, withdrawing from social engagement. However, fast forward to today, and I can proudly say that I’ve formed some of the most remarkable friendships I’ve ever experienced.
Imperial has turned into a second home for me, and all it required was stepping beyond my comfort zone and initiating small conversations with others who were equally apprehensive. My primary takeaway? Take that initial step early on. If you don’t feel prepared, don’t fret—there will be numerous icebreaker activities and chances to connect with others. Most importantly, embrace your true self. 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 adjusting to the heightened workload and complexity of university-level studies. The leap from A-levels to university was considerable, and transitioning from the first to the second term felt even more substantial. It is easy to become daunted and question your capabilities, especially when observing peers studying and seemingly grasping concepts with ease.
What benefited me the most was the realization that everyone faces difficulties at some point. If a concept is unclear to you, it’s likely that others are experiencing similar issues. The best course of action is to seek assistance—be it from classmates or instructors. Reaching out for help is not an indication of weakness; it’s a crucial skill that can aid your success.
#### The Value of Staff Support
One of the most beneficial elements of my experience has been the outstanding assistance from the Materials Science department. The staff genuinely wish for students to succeed and are always receptive to feedback. They acknowledge the hurdles we encounter and actively work to resolve our issues.
Though I didn’t fully utilize pastoral support until later in the academic year, I wish I had taken advantage of it earlier. Initially, I put myself out there by becoming a year well-being representative, which enabled me to forge connections with staff. This experience proved to be immensely valuable. There are numerous avenues to engage with faculty, and doing so can significantly enrich your university journey. My suggestion? Maximize the available support—you can never receive too much assistance.
#### Major Lessons from My First Year
Looking back on my first year, I’ve realized that many of the anxieties I experienced prior to starting university were unfounded. An abundance of support exists, both from faculty and fellow students. I’ve discovered that I’m never truly alone in my challenges, and I’ve learned how to balance academic demands with enjoying the university experience.
If you are about to embark on your university journey, understand that it’s perfectly normal to feel apprehensive. But also keep in mind that with time, commitment, and the right support, you will identify your niche and flourish.
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**By [Guest Blogger](https://blogs.imperial.ac.uk/student-blogs/author/bloggers/)**
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