Authored by Vijay (India), MSc Strategic Marketing
Stepping into London for the first time was quite a lot to handle. The city seemed vast, noisy, and bustling. Armed with only a suitcase and Google Maps, I felt uncertain about where to start. If you find yourself in a similar predicament, have no fear. Here are some tips to help you adjust to your new life in London before your time at Imperial begins, allowing you to savor the thrill of being new in the city.
Regardless of whether you arrive weeks in advance or right before the term begins, here’s the guidance I wish I’d gotten upon arriving.
First and foremost: secure your accommodation
Lock in your housing early to steer clear of pricey hotel stays. I was lucky, but not everyone has the same fortune, as the best choices get snapped up quickly. Try to locate a place near your campus or close to a dependable Tube line to avoid lengthy commutes for early classes.
Administrative tasks: organizing the essentials
Once you’re in London, there are several key items to take care of promptly:
- Money transfers – as an international student, seek a trustworthy and low-cost method to transfer funds from your homeland. Applications like Wise or Revolut offer superior exchange rates.
- UK SIM card – having mobile data is vital for navigation. Acquire a UK SIM card and data plan soon after you arrive.
- Bank account – some banks need a UK address, but digital banks like Monzo or Starling are quick and cater to students. Set up an account for day-to-day expenses and part-time job payments.
- Student ID card – this is essential for accessing campus facilities, libraries, and student discounts. Obtain it as soon as you can.
Your initial week at Imperial is key
Your inaugural week at Imperial is vital for your student experience. It’s when you’ll connect with flatmates, classmates, and future friends. Participate in Welcome Week to discover over 350 student-run clubs and societies and register for activities that pique your interest.
Even if you tend to be reserved, challenge yourself to join in. I did, and I met some of my closest friends during spontaneous campus tours and society booths. Your first week establishes the foundation for your university journey.
Getting around London: travel wisely
<pDuring my initial week, I was unfamiliar with the Tube or buses, so I trekked nine kilometers across London to explore. It was chaotic yet unforgettable. Avoid my blunder by obtaining your Student Oyster card and applying for the 18+ discount to save on Tube and bus fares.
Walking remains an excellent way to absorb the city and its culture, uncovering hidden treasures you might overlook otherwise.
Identify your comfort zones
London can be emotionally intense, particularly at first. Having a feel-good location is beneficial – mine is the park near my home, which I visit daily to unwind. Another is the O2, a mere 10 minutes away, where I enjoy a movie every week.
Discover your own comfort zones, whether it be a cafe, bookstore, or a bench by the river. These places can be more valuable than you realize.
And remember to explore!
Familiarize yourself with the areas you’ll frequent around campus and home. Identify your closest supermarket, pharmacy, parks, and favorite food or coffee spots.
Check out iconic landmarks, visit free museums, take a ride on a red double-decker bus, and roam without a specific plan. Some of your most cherished memories will stem from getting a bit lost!
Final pointers before diving into Imperial student life
- Carry a reusable bag – stores often charge for single-use ones.
- Invest in a waterproof jacket – umbrellas don’t hold up well against the wind.
- Embrace unconventional events – they make for great stories.
- Don’t fret if you feel disoriented – everyone experiences that initially.
You don’t have to have it all figured out from the start. 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 embark on your London adventure one red bus journey and Tesco visit at a time.