**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 brimming with anxiety, uncertainty, and self-doubt about what was to come. I was on the verge of embarking on 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 had always been introverted, entering this new phase felt daunting. Looking back, however, I recognize a year teeming with personal development, challenges, and remarkable experiences. But what insights have I gained, and what is my current standing?
### Conquering the Anxiety of Forming Friendships
One of the most significant obstacles I encountered at the onset of university was making friends. If you’re an incoming student, this might be one of your primary concerns as well. On my first day in the student residence, I found myself spending hours in my room, too daunted to venture out and introduce myself. Yet here I am today, able to confidently express that I’ve found some of the most exceptional friends in my life. Imperial has turned into a second home, and all it took were a few brief conversations with individuals who were experiencing the same feelings as me.
So, what did I take away from this? Taking that first step is always worth it. If you feel unprepared, don’t fret—there will be numerous icebreaker events and chances to meet new individuals. Most importantly, stay true to yourself. With such a varied student population, you are sure to meet people who resonate with your interests and values.
### Adapting to the Academic Demands
Another significant challenge was adjusting to the workload and the heightened complexity of the material. There was a clear transition from A-levels, and an even steeper rise between the first and second terms. At times, the feeling of being overwhelmed was palpable, especially when I compared myself to others who seemed to grasp ideas more swiftly.
What aided me during this time was the recognition that everyone faces difficulties at some stage. If you’re having trouble with something, it’s likely others are experiencing similar challenges. The best course of action is to seek assistance—whether from classmates or lecturers. Learning to ask for help is one of the most important skills you can acquire in your first year.
### The Significance of Staff Support
A standout aspect of my experience has been the remarkable support received from the teaching staff. The lecturers and tutors are genuinely invested in students’ success, and they comprehend the challenges we encounter. They maintain open lines of communication with us throughout the year, addressing our issues and providing direction.
While I didn’t engage with pastoral support until later in the year, I wish I had done so earlier. Early on, I made the decision to become a well-being representative for my cohort. This position helped me forge connections with staff members, which turned out to be invaluable. There are numerous ways to engage with faculty, and doing so can significantly enrich your university experience. My main takeaway? Utilize the support offered—you can never have too much assistance.
### Concluding Thoughts
Reflecting on my first year, I’ve discovered that the fears and worries I held before starting university were mostly unfounded. There are countless support structures available, both from faculty and fellow students, to help you navigate the obstacles. Most importantly, I’ve realized that I’m never alone. Even amid the pressures of exams and timeliness, I’ve found ways to relish my time at Imperial.
For anyone poised to begin their university adventure: embrace every moment, take risks, and don’t hesitate to seek help. You’ll develop in ways you never anticipated, and you might very well discover a second family along the way.