### 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 nerves, uncertainty, and doubt regarding the future. I was on the verge of starting 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. Having always been a shy and introverted person, embarking on this new chapter felt daunting. In retrospect, I see a year brimming with personal development, challenges, and numerous unforgettable moments. But what insights have I gained, and where do I find myself today?
### Conquering the Anxiety of Making Friends
One of the most significant hurdles I encountered at the outset was forming friendships. If you’re an incoming student, this might be a concern for you as well. On my first day in the student accommodation, I spent the entire day tucked away in my room, too apprehensive to venture outside and introduce myself. Yet, here we are today, and I can proudly state that I’ve forged some of the best friendships I’ve ever had.
I’ve discovered a second family here at Imperial, and all it required was stepping beyond my comfort zone and initiating conversations with others in similar situations. My major takeaway? Take the plunge early. If you don’t feel prepared, fret not—there will be abundant icebreaker events and chances to meet new individuals. Most importantly, just be yourself. With such a diverse student population, you’re sure to find those who resonate with your interests and values.
### Adapting to the Academic Demands
Another significant challenge was adjusting to the workload and the heightened complexity of the material. The leap from A-levels to university was considerable, and the shift from the first to the second term was even more demanding. It’s easy to become overwhelmed or question your capabilities when you observe others studying and seemingly understanding concepts more swiftly than you.
What helped me persevere was the understanding that everyone is experiencing the same struggles. If you find a topic challenging, it’s likely that others are as well. The best course of action is to seek assistance—whether it’s from classmates or faculty. Learning to ask for help is one of the most crucial skills you can cultivate in your first year.
### The Significance of Engaging with Faculty
One of the most delightful surprises of my first year was uncovering how supportive and approachable the Materials Science faculty truly is. The staff genuinely desire for students to excel and are always willing to address concerns. They empathize with the challenges we confront and maintain ongoing communication to ensure we feel backed.
Although I didn’t fully take advantage of the pastoral support offered until later in the year, I wish I had utilized it earlier. Early on, I made a bold move by becoming a year well-being representative, which allowed me to forge connections with faculty members. This experience revealed how beneficial it is to interact with staff, be it through office hours, student committees, or casual conversations. My recommendation? Leverage all the support available—you can never receive too much assistance!
### Concluding Thoughts
Reflecting on my first year, I’ve come to realize that many of the anxieties I harbored—both before and during my time at university—were unfounded. There exists a wealth of support from both staff and fellow students. Most importantly, I’ve understood that I am never alone on this journey. Despite the unavoidable stress of exams and deadlines, I’ve learned how to balance responsibilities with enjoyment, maximizing my university experience.
If you’re about to embark on your own university journey, my advice is straightforward: take the plunge, seek help when necessary, and embrace every opportunity that arises. You’ll develop more than you ever anticipated.
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*By [Guest Blogger](https://blogs.imperial.ac.uk/student-blogs/author/bloggers/)*
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