Authored by Vijay (India), MSc Strategic Marketing
Stepping foot in London for the first time was quite a lot to take in. The city seemed enormous, noisy, and bustling. Carrying only a suitcase and relying on Google Maps, I felt uncertain about where to start. If you find yourself in a similar predicament, don’t stress. Here’s some guidance to assist you in settling down in London before your journey at Imperial begins, allowing you to fully embrace the experience of being a newcomer in the city.
Whether you arrive a few weeks prior or just before the semester kicks off, here’s the counsel I wish I had received.
Secure accommodation
To avoid pricey hotel bills, arrange your living situation ahead of time. I was lucky, but not everyone has that fortune, as the best choices are snatched up quickly. Target a location near your campus or a dependable Tube line to steer clear of lengthy commutes for early classes.
Administrative tasks: addressing the basics
Upon your arrival in London, tackle these fundamentals swiftly:
- Money transfers – as an international student, seek a dependable and budget-friendly method to send money from home. Services like Wise or Revolut provide favorable exchange rates.
- UK SIM card – obtain one swiftly to guarantee you have data for navigating a new city.
- Bank account – while some banks require a UK address, digital banks such as Monzo or Starling are quick and accommodating for students. Establish an account for routine transactions and part-time job deposits.
- Student ID card – crucial for accessing campus facilities, libraries, and student discounts. Retrieve it as soon as you can.
Your initial week at Imperial is essential
The first week at Imperial is pivotal for your student journey. It’s the time to meet flatmates, classmates, and future acquaintances. Engage in Welcome Week to explore over 350 student-run clubs and societies and get involved in what piques your interest.
Even if you tend to be reserved, challenge yourself to take part. I did, and I met some of my closest friends during campus tours and society activities. Your first week lays the groundwork for your university experience.
Getting around London: travel wisely
During my first week, I was clueless about the Tube or buses and ended up walking nine kilometers across London. It was memorable yet chaotic. Obtain your Student Oyster card and apply for the 18+ discount to travel the Tube and buses economically.
Walking remains an excellent way to navigate the city and uncover hidden treasures.
Identify your comfort zones
London can initially feel emotionally taxing. Having a comfort space is beneficial – mine is a nearby park where I visit daily to unwind. Another is the O2, just a short 10-minute trip away, where I go to catch movies and relax.
Discover your own havens, be it a cafe, bookstore, or riverside seat, where you can rejuvenate and recharge.
Discover!
Get acquainted with your new surroundings near campus and home. Locate local supermarkets, pharmacies, parks, and your preferred eateries or coffee shops.
Check out iconic landmarks, visit free museums, hop on a red double-decker bus, and explore without a set agenda. Some of your most memorable experiences will arise from a little detour!
Final pointers before immersing in Imperial student life
- Acquire a reusable bag – stores often impose charges for single-use ones.
- Invest in a waterproof jacket – umbrellas are ineffective against strong winds.
- Participate in unique events – they can lead to fantastic stories.
- Don’t panic if you feel disoriented – everyone feels that way initially.
You don’t need to have everything sorted out on day one. If you’re reading this, you’re already ahead of where I was when I began at Imperial. Take a deep breath, grab your Oyster card, and start your London adventure one bus ride and Tesco visit at a time.
To find out more about my experiences, read my Imperial story.