### Thoughts on My Initial Year in Materials Science and Engineering
*Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)*
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I experienced a whirlwind of nerves, uncertainty, and apprehension regarding what was on the horizon. I was gearing up to embark on my inaugural year pursuing [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 naturally inclined to shyness and reticence, plunging into this new adventure felt quite daunting. Now, in retrospect, I perceive a year abundant in personal development, hurdles, and numerous unforgettable experiences. So, what insights have I gained from this journey, and what is my current stance?
#### Surmounting the Fear of Friendships
One of the most intimidating elements of commencing university was the challenge of forming friendships. If you’re a future student perusing this, you might resonate with these feelings. I vividly recall my first day moving into my accommodation—I spent the whole day holed up in my room, too apprehensive to venture out and meet others. Yet, sitting here today, I can assertively say that I’ve formed some of the best friendships of my life.
Imperial has transformed into a second home for me, and all it took was stepping beyond my comfort zone and striking up casual conversations with individuals who shared similar experiences. My key takeaway? Take that leap early. Even if you don’t feel prepared, there will be numerous ice-breaker events and opportunities to connect with new people. Most importantly, stay true to yourself—Imperial is a melting pot of diverse individuals, making it likely for you to find friends who share your mindset.
#### Adapting to the Academic Demands
Another noteworthy hurdle was acclimating to the academic workload and the heightened complexity of the material. The transition from A-levels to university was palpable, and the shift from the first term to the second was even more pronounced. At times, I found myself questioning my capabilities, particularly when I observed peers studying and felt like I was lagging behind.
What enabled me to persevere was the realization that I wasn’t isolated—many of my classmates faced similar challenges. If something isn’t clear to you, chances are others are grappling with it as well. The best piece of advice I can offer? Don’t hesitate to seek assistance. Whether it’s from your fellow students or the faculty, reaching out for support is one of the most beneficial skills you can hone during your first year.
#### The Value of Seeking Assistance
On the subject of support, the faculty in the Materials department are exceptional. They sincerely want students to thrive and are consistently receptive to feedback. Throughout the year, they maintained a steady line of communication with us, ensuring that our concerns were acknowledged.
Although I didn’t make use of the pastoral support until later in the year, I regret not doing so earlier. One of the wisest choices I made was stepping into the role of a year well-being representative. This position enabled me to cultivate connections with faculty members, which proved invaluable. There are numerous avenues to foster relationships with staff, and doing so can significantly enrich your university journey. My counsel? Capitalize on the resources at your disposal—there’s no such thing as too much support.
#### Final Thoughts
Reflecting on my first year, I’ve come to understand that the fears and uncertainties I harbored prior to starting university were largely unfounded. With the appropriate backing from both faculty and peers, those concerns became manageable. Most importantly, I’ve recognized that I’m never truly alone, and I’ve mastered the art of balancing academic demands with the joys of university life.
For anyone on the brink of beginning their adventure at Imperial, my advice is straightforward: embrace the journey, seek support whenever necessary, and don’t shy away from taking that initial step. You might discover that you grow in ways you never imagined.