**Thoughts on My Initial Year Studying Materials Science and Engineering**
*By Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)*
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I was brimming with anxiety, fear, and uncertainty regarding the journey ahead. I was set to commence my first year studying [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 rather shy and reserved, entering this new phase felt daunting. Reflecting back now, I recognize a year filled with personal development, obstacles, and remarkable experiences. But what have I discovered, and where do I find myself today?
### Conquering the Anxiety of Making Connections
A significant challenge I encountered early on was forming friendships. If you’re an incoming student, this might be a primary concern for you as well. On my first day in student accommodations—just days ahead of the term’s official start—I was so overwhelmed that I spent the entire day in my room, too anxious to introduce myself to anyone.
Fast forward to today, and I can say with confidence that I’ve forged some of the best friendships I’ve ever known. Imperial has evolved into a second home, and the individuals I’ve met here feel like family. All it required was stepping outside my comfort zone and striking up conversations with others who were in similar situations.
So, what did I take away from this? Taking that initial leap is always worthwhile. If you don’t feel prepared, don’t fret—there will be numerous icebreaker events and opportunities to connect with others. Above all, simply be yourself. With such a diverse student population, you will surely find like-minded peers.
### Adapting to Academic Demands
Another significant obstacle was getting accustomed to the increased workload and complexity of the course material. The transition from A-levels to university was considerable, and the shift from the first to the second term seemed even more formidable. At times, I questioned my capabilities, especially when witnessing peers studying and seemingly mastering concepts more quickly than I could.
What helped me persevere was the acknowledgment that I wasn’t alone. If I found a topic challenging, it was likely that others did as well. The best advice I can give? Don’t hesitate to ask for assistance. This is one of the most crucial skills to hone during your first year. Whether it’s reaching out to classmates or seeking help from professors, make sure to ask questions.
### The Supportive Faculty and Pastoral Services
One of the standout features of studying Materials Science at Imperial is the exceptional support from the teaching staff. They truly want students to thrive and comprehend the challenges we encounter. Throughout the year, they kept open lines of communication with us, addressing our worries and providing guidance.
Although I didn’t fully tap into the pastoral support until later in the year, I wish I had taken advantage of it earlier. At the start, I made a bold move by becoming a year well-being representative, which enabled me to establish connections with staff members. This proved to be invaluable. There are countless ways 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
Looking back, this year has shown me that the anxiety I felt before starting university—and even throughout the year—was often unwarranted. With the right backing from both staff and fellow students, challenges became manageable. I’ve realized that I’m never truly alone and that it is possible to harmonize academic demands with enjoyment and personal development.
If you’re on the brink of beginning university, my straightforward advice is: embrace the journey, seek support when necessary, and take every chance to step beyond your comfort zone. You’ll be astonished at how much you evolve along the way.