Written by Vijay (India), MSc Strategic Marketing
Stepping foot in London for the very first time was a truly intense experience. The city seemed vast, the noise was incessant and the pace was rapid, leaving me uncertain about where to start with merely a suitcase and Google Maps. If you find yourself in a similar position soon, there’s no need to worry. Here is my guidance to help you acclimate to your new life in London prior to your studies at Imperial, ensuring you can fully appreciate being new in the city.
Whether you arrive a few weeks prior or just in time for the term to commence, here’s the advice I wish I had been given upon my arrival.
Priority One: Secure Housing
To evade the steep prices of hotel accommodations, arrange your housing in advance. I was lucky, but not everyone has that fortune, as the finest choices are snatched up quickly. Try to locate a residence close to your campus or near a dependable Tube line – early morning classes are challenging if your commute exceeds an hour.
Essential Life Administration
When you arrive in London, there are several important tasks to tackle swiftly:
- Handling finances – for an international student, it’s vital to find a reliable and budget-friendly method to transfer funds from your home country. Applications like Wise or Revolut assisted me in bypassing unfavorable exchange rates.
- Getting a UK SIM card – having access to data is crucial for navigation, especially in an unfamiliar area or country. Obtain a UK SIM card and a data plan promptly after arrival.
- Opening a bank account – some banks may require a UK address, but digital banks such as Monzo or Starling are efficient and accommodating for students. Establish a bank account quickly for everyday transactions and receiving payments for part-time jobs.
- Acquiring your student ID card – this is vital for accessing campus facilities, the library, and obtaining student discounts at various locations. Secure your student ID card as soon as possible.
The Significance of Your First Week at Imperial
Your initial week at Imperial holds great importance for your experience as a student. It’s the time when you’ll engage with flatmates, classmates, and future friends. Participate in Welcome Week to check out over 350 student-led clubs and societies, and sign up for pursuits that interest you.
Even if you feel reserved, challenge yourself to get involved. I did, and I forged some of my closest friendships during spontaneous campus tours and society booths. Your first week at Imperial sets the foundation for your university journey.
Smart Travel in London
In my first week, I was unfamiliar with the Tube or buses and ended up walking nine kilometers across London. It was chaotic yet unforgettable – don’t replicate my experience. Obtain your Student Oyster card and apply for the 18+ discount for more economical travel on the Tube and buses.
Nevertheless, walking remains an excellent way to experience the city and its culture. London is filled with concealed treasures waiting to be discovered through exploration.
Identify Your Comfort Zones
London can feel emotionally taxing, particularly at the outset. Discovering a comfort zone is beneficial – for me, it’s the park close to my home. I go there daily to unwind and recharge. My other comfort zone is the O2, just a short 10-minute distance, where I watch films weekly to de-stress.
Find your own comfort areas, be it a café, bookstore, or a riverside bench. These spots offer a vital chance to relax and reset.
Explore and Unearth!
Get acquainted with commonly visited regions around campus and your residence. Identify your closest supermarket, pharmacy, parks, and favorite eateries or coffee spots.
Visit iconic landmarks, explore free museums, and take a ride on a red double-decker bus for the views. Spend your weekends exploring your new city, and relish the experience of getting a bit lost – it’s in these moments that your finest memories will be created!
Final Suggestions for Your Start at Imperial
- Carry a reusable bag – stores frequently charge for single-use ones.
- Purchase a waterproof jacket – umbrellas often fail against wind-driven rain.
- Participate in unique events – they often lead to the most entertaining stories.