**Thoughts on My Initial Year in Materials Science and Engineering**
*By Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)*
Nearly a year ago, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, fear, and uncertainty about the path ahead. I was on the brink of beginning 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 somewhat introverted, entering this new phase felt daunting. Reflecting on the past year, I see a journey marked by growth, hurdles, and a multitude of unforgettable moments. But what lessons have I gained, and what is my current standing?
### Conquering the Anxiety of Forming Friendships
One of the most significant obstacles I encountered early in my journey was establishing friendships. If you’re an incoming student, this might be a major worry for you as well. I recall arriving at my accommodation a few days prior to the semester and spending the entire day in my room, too shy to step out and introduce myself.
Fast forward to now, and I can proudly affirm that I’ve formed some of the most meaningful friendships I’ve ever had. The individuals I’ve connected with here have become like a second family to me. The secret was to begin with small steps—striking up casual conversations with others who were experiencing the same situation as me.
So, what insights did I gain? First, taking that first step is always worthwhile. If you’re not feeling ready, don’t fret—there will be numerous icebreaker events and chances to meet new people. Secondly, the best advice I can give is to be yourself. With such a heterogeneous student population, you’re sure to find individuals who resonate with your interests and values.
### Navigating the Academic Demands
Another significant challenge was adjusting to the academic demands and intensity. The shift from A-levels was palpable, and the transition from the first term to the second was even more pronounced. There were moments when I felt swamped and questioned my capabilities, especially when I observed others studying diligently.
What aided me during this time was the awareness that everyone was experiencing similar struggles. If I didn’t grasp a concept, there were likely others facing the same issues. The best move I made was to ask for assistance—whether from classmates or instructors. Learning to seek help is one of the most essential skills you can cultivate during your freshman year.
### The Value of Staff Support
A highlight of my experience has been the remarkable support from the Materials Science department staff. They genuinely care about student success and are always receptive to feedback and communication. Although I didn’t fully leverage pastoral support until later in the year, I wish I had sought it out earlier.
At the beginning of the year, I took a chance and became a year well-being representative. This role allowed me to engage with staff members, which turned out to be extremely advantageous. There are various ways to foster relationships with faculty, and doing so can significantly enhance your university journey. My key takeaway? Make the most of the support at your disposal—you can never have too much assistance!
### Concluding Thoughts
In hindsight, this past year has shown me that the anxieties and uncertainties I had before commencing university were mostly unwarranted. There is an abundance of support available, from both staff and fellow students, to help ease the transition. Most importantly, I’ve realized that I am never alone, and it’s entirely feasible to juggle academic pressures with personal enjoyment.
For anyone on the threshold of starting their university adventure: embrace the experience, seek help when necessary, and remember to relish the journey!