**Insights from My Initial Year in Materials Science and Engineering**
*By Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)*
Ten months prior, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, uncertainty, and questions about what the future held. I was on the brink of my first 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 who has always been introverted and reserved, embarking on this new phase of my life felt daunting. Reflecting on this past year now, I see it as a time of personal development, challenges, and many unforgettable experiences. So, what insights have I gained, and where do I stand at this moment?
### Conquering the Anxiety of Building Friendships
One of the most significant obstacles I encountered was forming new friendships. If you are an incoming student, this might be one of your main worries as well. I still recall my first day in student housing—I spent the whole day in my room, too nervous to venture out and introduce myself. However, as I write this, I can proudly say that I have forged some of the most valuable friendships I’ve ever had. Imperial has evolved into a second home for me, and all it took was a touch of small talk with individuals experiencing similar feelings.
So, what did I discover? Taking that initial leap is always worthwhile. Even if you don’t feel prepared, there will be ample opportunities and social events designed to foster connections. Most importantly, remain true to yourself. With a diverse student population, you will surely encounter people with similar interests and values.
### Adapting to Academic Demands
Another critical challenge was adjusting to the intensity of the coursework and the academic expectations. The shift from A-levels to university was profound, and the transition from the first to the second term felt particularly intense. It’s easy to become overwhelmed when observing others studying and beginning to doubt your own capabilities.
What supported me through this period was the understanding that everyone shares similar struggles. If you find yourself grappling with a concept, there’s a good chance others are facing the same difficulty. The best course of action is to seek assistance—whether from your fellow students or the teaching faculty. Learning to ask for help is one of the most important skills you can develop during your first year.
### The Value of Faculty Support
On the topic of support, the teaching staff in the Materials department are exceptional. They genuinely want students to thrive and are always receptive to feedback. Throughout the year, they kept in touch and offered guidance whenever necessary.
I didn’t take full advantage of the pastoral resources available until late in the year, and I wish I had done so earlier. One of the best choices I made was to become a well-being representative for my year. This position enabled me to cultivate relationships with staff members, which turned out to be extremely advantageous. There are numerous ways to engage with faculty, and doing so can significantly enrich your university journey. My key takeaway? Make the most of the support systems at your disposal—you can never have too much assistance!
### Concluding Thoughts
Reflecting back, this year has shown me that many of the fears I harbored prior to entering university were unwarranted. A multitude of support options is accessible, both from faculty and peers, to help you tackle any issues you may encounter. Most importantly, I have learned that I am not alone and that balancing academic demands with a rewarding university experience is entirely feasible.
If you are about to embark on your own university adventure, my advice is clear: take that leap of faith, seek assistance when you need it, and embrace every opportunity that comes your way. You will grow in unexpected ways, and before long, you’ll find yourself reminiscing about an amazing first year—just as I am now.