Written by Vijay (India), MSc Strategic Marketing
Arriving in London for the first time was an intense experience. The city felt immense, noisy, and fast-moving. With merely a suitcase in one hand and Google Maps in the other, I felt disoriented. If you’re about to begin a similar journey, there’s no need to fret. Here’s some guidance to help you adjust to your new life in London before your studies at Imperial, so you can fully enjoy the city.
Whether you’re coming weeks in advance or just before the term starts, here’s the advice I wished I had received when I arrived.
Priority One: Find Accommodation
Steer clear of the high costs of hotel stays by securing your accommodation early. I was lucky, but not everyone is, as the best options get snapped up quickly. Look for a place near your campus or close to a reliable Tube line to make those early commutes easier.
Necessary Life Tasks
Upon your arrival in London, promptly take care of the following necessities:
- Money Transfers – As an international student, it’s important to discover a budget-friendly method to transfer money from home. Apps like Wise or Revolut provide favorable exchange rates.
- UK SIM Card – Make sure you have data for navigation by getting a UK SIM card right after you land.
- Bank Account Setup – Some banks require a UK address, but digital banks like Monzo or Starling are fast and friendly for students. Open an account for daily transactions and any payments from part-time work.
- Student ID Card – This card allows access to campus facilities, library services, and student discounts. Obtain it as soon as you can.
Imperial’s First Week: An Essential Experience
Your initial week at Imperial is crucial. It’s when you can meet flatmates, classmates, and potential friends. Take part in Welcome Week to discover over 350 student-led clubs and societies, and enroll in activities that catch your interest.
Even if you’re reserved, make an effort to engage. I did, and I met some of my closest friends during campus tours and society stalls. This week shapes the course of your university experience.
Efficient Travel in London
In my first week, I didn’t grasp the Tube or buses, resulting in me walking nine kilometers across London. While it was memorable, it’s not advisable. Get your Student Oyster card and apply for the 18+ discount for affordable travel.
Walking remains an excellent way to uncover the city’s hidden treasures and culture.
Find Your Relaxation Spots
London can be emotionally overwhelming at first. Finding a place of comfort is beneficial – for me, it’s a nearby park. I visit daily to unwind. My second favorite is the O2, just 10 minutes away, where I indulge in a movie weekly.
Identify your own comforting spots, whether it’s a cafe, bookstore, or riverside bench, to relax and recharge.
Explore and Discover
Get familiar with commonly frequented areas near your campus and home. Find your closest supermarket, pharmacy, parks, and preferred food or coffee places.
Check out iconic landmarks, explore free museums, and ride a red double-decker bus. Some of your most cherished memories will emerge from spontaneous escapades.
Final Tips for Starting at Imperial
- Utilize a reusable bag to avoid fees for single-use bags.
- Invest in a waterproof jacket; umbrellas won’t hold up against wind-driven rain.
- Participate in unusual events for unforgettable stories.
- Don’t worry if you feel disoriented at first; it’s a normal feeling.
You don’t need to have everything sorted out on the first day. If you’re reading this, you’re already ahead of where I was when I first arrived at Imperial. Take a deep breath, grab your Oyster card, and kickstart your London adventure one bus ride and Tesco visit at a time.
To learn more about my experiences, <a href="https://www.imperial.ac.uk/Stories/my-imperial-story-vijay/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" aria-label="https://www.imperial.ac.uk/Stories/my-imper