### Reflections 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 overwhelmed with anxiety, uncertainty, and skepticism about what awaited me. I was on the verge of commencing 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 has always been somewhat timid and introverted, navigating this new chapter felt daunting. Now, as I reflect on the past academic year, I see a path of personal development, obstacles, and a plethora of unforgettable moments. But what insights have I gained, and where do I find myself now?
#### Conquering the Anxiety of Making Connections
One of the most significant obstacles I encountered early on was forging friendships. If you’re an incoming student, this may be one of your primary worries as well. I vividly recall my first day moving into student housing—I spent the entire day sequestered in my room, too daunted to venture out and introduce myself.
However, as I reflect now, I can proudly state that I’ve formed some of the best friendships of my life. I’ve found a second family at Imperial, and all it required was stepping beyond my comfort zone and engaging in casual conversations with others in similar situations.
So, what did I glean? Taking that initial step is invariably rewarding. If you don’t feel prepared or at ease right away, don’t fret—there will be numerous ice-breaking events and avenues to meet new people. Most importantly, just be true to yourself. With such a varied student population, you’re sure to find individuals who resonate with your interests and principles.
#### Adapting to Academic Expectations
Another major challenge was adjusting to the academic workload and the heightened difficulty of the material. The transition from A-levels to university was stark, and the shift from the first to the second term proved even more demanding. It’s easy to become overwhelmed or question your capabilities, especially when observing others immersed in their studies.
What assisted me through this was the understanding that everyone is experiencing similar struggles. If you’re grappling with a concept, it’s likely that others are as well. The critical factor is to seek assistance—whether from classmates or the faculty. Learning to reach out for help is one of the most essential skills you can cultivate in your first year.
#### The Significance of Seeking Assistance
On the topic of support, the staff in the Materials department are exceptional. They genuinely care about student success and understand the obstacles we encounter. They maintain open lines of communication throughout the year and are always ready to assist.
I didn’t fully leverage the available pastoral support until late in the year, but I wish I had taken advantage of it sooner. At the beginning of the year, I took a leap and became a well-being representative for my cohort. This position fostered connections with staff members, which turned out to be immensely beneficial. There are numerous opportunities to engage with faculty, and doing so can significantly enrich your university experience. My key takeaway? Utilize the support available—you can never have too much assistance!
#### Concluding Thoughts
Reflecting on the year, I’ve learned that the fears and worries I had prior to starting university were largely unfounded. With the appropriate support from faculty and fellow students, those concerns quickly subsided. I’ve come to realize that I’m never truly alone, and I’ve figured out how to balance academic pressures while enjoying a fulfilling university life.
If you’re about to embark on your own university journey, my advice is straightforward: take that first step, seek help when needed, and embrace every chance that presents itself.
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**By [Guest Blogger](https://blogs.imperial.ac.uk/student-blogs/author/bloggers/)**
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