**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 was overwhelmed with anxiety, fear, and uncertainty regarding what was to come. I was about to begin my adventure as a first-year student 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. For someone who had always been introverted and quiet, stepping into the unfamiliar was a frightening thought. Now, reflecting on the year, I recognize it as a time of personal development, obstacles, and a lot of enjoyment. But what have I truly learned, and what is my current standing?
### Conquering the Anxiety of Making Friends
One of the most daunting challenges I encountered at the outset was forming friendships. This tends to be one of the primary worries for newcomers, and if you’re reading this as a prospective student, it might be a concern for you as well. On my first day settling into my student housing, just a few days prior to the start of the term, I spent the entire day sequestered in my room, too scared to venture out and introduce myself to others.
Fast forward to now, and I can proudly say that I’ve developed some of the finest friendships of my life. The individuals I’ve met have come to feel like a second family. I simply needed to step outside my comfort zone and engage in conversations with others in similar situations. So, what have I discovered? I learned that taking that initial leap is always worthwhile. If you don’t feel prepared or at ease right away, don’t fret—numerous ice-breaker events and opportunities to meet fellow students will arise. Above all, be authentic. With such a varied student community, you’re sure to find individuals who resonate with your interests and principles.
### Adjusting to the Academic Demands
Another major obstacle was adapting to the heightened workload and complexity of the course materials. There was certainly a noticeable increase from A-levels, and an even greater transition from the first term to the second. Being thrust into such an intense academic environment can occasionally undermine your confidence, especially when you observe others studying and feel as though you’re falling behind.
What aided me throughout this experience was recognizing that everyone shares similar struggles. If you find something challenging, there’s a good chance that your classmates are grappling with it as well. The crucial takeaway? Don’t hesitate to seek assistance. This is likely the most vital skill to cultivate in your initial year. Reach out to your fellow students and the faculty—they’re there to assist you.
### Guidance from the Faculty
Speaking of faculty, I can’t stress enough how remarkable the professors in the Materials department are. They genuinely wish for your success and acknowledge the issues students encounter. Throughout the year, they kept lines of communication open and were consistently understanding of our worries. I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support until later in the year, and I wish I had done so earlier.
At the year’s beginning, I took a step forward by becoming a well-being representative for my cohort. This position enabled me to connect with the faculty on a deeper level, which proved to be immensely beneficial. There are multiple avenues to build relationships with the faculty, and doing so can greatly enhance your university experience. My key takeaway here is to take full advantage of the resources available to you—you can never have too much assistance!
### Concluding Thoughts
To sum up, this year has shown me that the apprehension I experienced before entering university, and even during the year, was mostly unwarranted. There are extensive support systems available, from both faculty and fellow students, to navigate any challenges. I’ve realized that I’m never truly isolated, and I’ve learned how to balance enjoying my time while managing the inevitable pressures of exams and deadlines.
By Dawson La
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**Byline:** By [Guest Blogger](https://blogs.imperial.ac.uk/student-blogs/author/bloggers/)
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