**Insights from My First 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 self-doubt regarding what was to come. As a first-year student gearing up to kick off my degree 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), I found myself entering uncharted waters. Having always been a quiet and reserved individual, diving into this new journey felt quite intimidating. Reflecting back now, I recognize a year rich in personal development, obstacles, and a multitude of fun experiences. But what insights have I gained, and where do I find myself today?
### Conquering the Fear of Networking
One of the primary hurdles I encountered early on was establishing friendships. If you’re an incoming student, this may be a concern of yours as well. On my first day in the student residence, just prior to the semester commencing, I spent the entire day in my room, too apprehensive to step outside and meet others. However, fast forward to now, and I can proudly say that I’ve formed some of the most meaningful friendships I’ve ever had. Imperial has become like a second home, and it all began with initiating small chats with others who were feeling just as unsure as I was.
So, what did I learn? Taking that first step at the beginning of the year is always worthwhile. If you don’t feel prepared, don’t fret—there will be ample icebreaker activities and chances to connect with others. Most importantly, stay true to yourself. With such a diverse student community, you’ll inevitably find individuals who resonate with your interests and principles.
### Adapting to Academic Challenges
Another notable obstacle was learning to manage the workload and complexity of the course material. Transitioning from A-levels to university proved to be a significant challenge, and the leap from the first to second term felt even more demanding. It’s natural to feel daunted or question your capabilities when you observe others studying, but the vital thing to remember is that everyone is navigating the same path. If you’re struggling to grasp a concept, it’s likely others are as well—so don’t hesitate to seek assistance.
This was one of the most important lessons I took away from my first year: never shy away from asking for help. Whether it’s from classmates or faculty, reaching out for support is key to thriving academically.
### Valuing Engagement with Staff
Speaking of assistance, one of the most rewarding aspects of studying Materials Science at Imperial is the faculty. They truly care about students’ success and are always receptive to feedback and discussions surrounding any obstacles we encounter. I didn’t fully leverage the support available until later in the year, but I wish I had done it earlier.
At the beginning of the year, I took a step forward by becoming a well-being representative for my year. This role enabled me to connect with faculty members, which turned out to be incredibly beneficial. There are numerous avenues to engage with staff, and doing so can significantly enrich your university journey. My biggest insight? Optimize the support at your disposal—you can never have too much assistance.
### Concluding Thoughts
Reflecting on my first year, I’ve come to realize that many of the apprehensions I held—both prior to and during university—were unfounded. There’s abundant support from both faculty and peers, and I’ve learned that I’m never truly alone. Most importantly, I’ve figured out how to balance academic responsibilities while enjoying my university experience.
If you’re about to embark on your own journey at Imperial, my advice is straightforward: take the plunge, seek help when necessary, and fully embrace the experience. You’ll develop in ways you never imagined, and you might just have the time of your life.