**Thoughts on My Initial Year at Imperial College London**
*By Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)*
A decade ago, in October 2022, I was brimming with anxiety, trepidation, and doubt about what was to come. I was on the verge of commencing 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. As someone who had always been introverted and reserved, entering this new phase felt daunting. In hindsight, I can see a year filled with personal development, challenges, and numerous unforgettable experiences. But what insights have I gained, and what is my current status?
### Conquering the Anxiety of Making Connections
One of the most significant obstacles I encountered was forming friendships. If you are a future student, this might be one of your primary concerns as well. On my inaugural day in student housing, just before the term commenced, I spent the entire day confined to my room, too daunted to venture out and introduce myself. However, reflecting now, I can confidently assert that I’ve forged some of the most meaningful friendships I’ve ever had.
Imperial has transformed into a second home for me, and all it necessitated was stepping beyond my comfort zone and engaging in casual conversations with others who were experiencing similar feelings. My key takeaway? Make that first move. If you don’t feel prepared, don’t fret—there are ample icebreaker events and chances to connect with others. Most importantly, just be yourself. With such a varied student community, you’re sure to encounter individuals who share your interests.
### Adapting to Academic Demands
Another significant challenge was acclimating to the academic workload and the heightened complexity of the material. The leap from A-levels to university was substantial, and the shift from the first to the second term felt even more pronounced. It’s effortless to feel swamped when observing others study and begin to doubt your own capabilities.
What assisted me in overcoming this was the realization that everyone is experiencing the same struggles. If you’re confused about something, it’s likely that many others are as well. The most effective action you can take is to seek assistance—whether from your peers or academic staff. Learning to ask for help is one of the most crucial skills you can cultivate in your first year.
### The Value of Support Networks
In terms of support, the staff in the Materials department are remarkable. They genuinely care about student success and understand the hurdles we encounter. Throughout the year, they kept communication channels open and offered valuable advice.
I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support available until the conclusion of the year, but I regret not doing it sooner. One of the best choices I made was to become a Year Well-being Representative. This position allowed me to connect with staff members, which proved to be tremendously advantageous. There are various methods to cultivate relationships with faculty, and doing so can significantly enrich your university journey. My advice? Take advantage of the available support—you can never have too much assistance!
### Concluding Thoughts
Reflecting on the past year, I’ve learned that the apprehension I felt prior to and during university was often unfounded. There are numerous support systems in place, from faculty to fellow students, ensuring that no one has to navigate this journey alone. Most importantly, I’ve discovered how to balance the pressures of academics with the enjoyment of university life.
If you’re on the brink of starting your adventure at Imperial, be aware that challenges will arise, but so will amazing opportunities for development. Take the plunge, seek help, and savor the experience—you won’t regret it!