**Reflecting 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 enveloped in anxiety, uncertainty, and skepticism about what was to come. 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 leaned towards shyness and introversion, stepping beyond my comfort zone felt overwhelming. Now, as I reflect on the past academic year, I recognize a journey filled with personal development, challenges, and numerous unforgettable experiences. But what insights have I gained, and what is my current standing?
### Conquering the Anxiety of Socializing
A significant challenge I encountered early on was forging friendships. If you are an incoming student, this may be a concern for you too. On my initial day in student housing, just prior to the term kicking off, I isolated myself in my room all day, feeling too anxious to go out and introduce myself. Yet, fast forward to now, and I can proudly proclaim that I’ve formed some of the best friendships I’ve ever known.
Imperial has truly become a second home for me, and it just started with a little chit-chat with others in a similar situation. My key takeaway? Make that initial move early. If you’re not feeling prepared, don’t stress—there are numerous icebreaker activities and chances to meet new people. Above all, be authentic. With such a wide-ranging student community, you’re bound to connect with individuals who share your interests and values.
### Adapting to the Academic Demands
Another significant obstacle was adjusting to the demanding coursework and the heightened complexity of the material. The leap from A-levels to university was substantial, and the transition from the first term to the second was even more formidable. It’s easy to become overwhelmed or to question your capabilities, especially when observing peers studying diligently.
What assisted me was recalling that everyone is grappling with similar challenges. If you’re having difficulty grasping a concept, it’s likely that others are too. The most constructive action is to ask for assistance—whether from classmates or your instructors. Developing the skill to seek support is one of the most beneficial things you can learn during your first year.
### Encouragement from Faculty and Pastoral Care
One of the standout aspects of my experience has been the exceptional support from the Materials Science division. The faculty genuinely care about student success and are aware of the challenges we face. They maintain open lines of communication throughout the year, ensuring that student issues are acknowledged and addressed.
Even though I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support until later in the year, I regret not doing so earlier. Taking on the role of a well-being representative for my year allowed me to connect with faculty members, which proved to be invaluable. There are numerous ways to establish connections with faculty, and doing so can greatly enrich your university experience. My recommendation? Make use of all the available support—you can never receive too much help!
### Concluding Thoughts
Reflecting on my journey, this year has shown me that the anxiety and concerns I held before starting university were mostly unwarranted. There is a plethora of support available, both from faculty and fellow students. I’ve discovered that I am never truly on my own and that enjoying university life is entirely feasible, even amid the stress of exams and deadlines.
For anyone gearing up to start their university adventure, my guidance is straightforward: take the plunge, seek help when necessary, and seize every opportunity that comes your way.
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**By [Guest Blogger](https://blogs.imperial.ac.uk/student-blogs/author/bloggers/)**
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