Authored by Vijay (India), MSc Strategic Marketing
Stepping foot in London for the very first time felt quite daunting. The metropolis appeared enormous, noisy, and bustling. Equipped with only a suitcase and Google Maps, I was uncertain about where to begin. If you’re about to face this, don’t fret. Here’s a guide to acclimate yourself to your new life in London before commencing at Imperial, allowing you to relish the city.
Whether you arrive weeks in advance or right before the term kicks off, here’s the guidance I wished I had received.
First things first: secure your accommodation
Arrange your housing as soon as possible to steer clear of pricey hotel costs. I was lucky, but not everyone has that fortune, as the top choices disappear rapidly. Try to find a residence close to your campus or a dependable Tube line to minimize long travels for early classes.
Administrative matters: taking care of the essentials
Once you’re in London, promptly tackle these necessities:
- Money transfers – as an international student, locate a trustworthy method to send money from your home country. Services like Wise or Revolut provide favorable exchange rates.
- UK SIM card – obtain one right away to guarantee you have data for navigation in unfamiliar areas.
- Bank account – some banks need a UK address, but digital banks like Monzo or Starling are fast and accommodating for students. Open an account for transactions and payments from part-time jobs.
- Student ID card – this is crucial for accessing campus facilities, libraries, and student discounts. Obtain it at the earliest opportunity.
The first week at Imperial is vital
Your initial week at Imperial is significant. It’s the time to meet roommates, fellow students, and potential friends. Participate in Welcome Week to discover over 350 student-led clubs and societies and engage in areas that intrigue you.
Even if you’re reserved, challenge yourself to join in. I met many of my closest friends during spontaneous campus tours and society booths. 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, so I walked nine kilometers across London. It was an unforgettable yet hectic experience. Acquire your Student Oyster card and apply for the 18+ discount to make travel more affordable on the Tube and buses.
Walking remains an excellent way to immerse yourself in the city and uncover hidden treasures.
Identify your comfort zones
London can be a lot to take in. Having a personal comfort spot is beneficial – mine is a nearby park. I go there every day to unwind. Another favorite is the O2, just ten minutes away, where I catch movies weekly.
Discover your own favorite areas, whether it’s a café, a bookstore, or a riverside bench, to relax and recharge.
And remember to explore!
Familiarize yourself with the areas you frequently visit around campus and your residence. Locate nearby supermarkets, pharmacies, parks, and your favorite eateries.
Visit iconic landmarks, peruse free museums, ride a classic red double-decker bus, and meander without a specific aim. Some of your fondest memories will arise from wandering a little off course!
Final pointers before immersing yourself into Imperial student life
- Get a reusable bag – stores commonly charge for disposable ones.
- Invest in a waterproof jacket – umbrellas are often useless in strong winds.
- Embrace unexpected events – they lead to the most memorable tales.
- Don’t stress if you feel disoriented – it’s entirely normal in the beginning.
You don’t have to have everything sorted on your first day. 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 stop at a time.
To learn more about my journey, <a href="https://www.imperial.ac.uk/Stories/my-imperial-story-vijay/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" aria-label="https://www.imperial.ac.uk/