By Vijay (India), MSc Strategic Marketing
Stepping into London for the first time was intimidating. The city seemed vast, noisy, and incredibly fast. Armed only with a suitcase and Google Maps, I felt uncertain about where to start. If you find yourself in a similar predicament, relax. Here’s my guidance to help you adjust to life in London before your journey at Imperial, so you can genuinely relish the experience of being a newcomer in the city.
Whether you arrive several weeks in advance or just moments before the semester kicks off, here’s the counsel I wish I had been given upon my arrival.
Secure Accommodation
Book your housing early to avoid costly hotel bookings. I was fortunate, but that’s not the case for everyone. The best choices disappear quickly, so aim to locate a residence close to your campus or a dependable Tube line to sidestep lengthy commutes for early classes.
Administrative Tasks: Essentials to Organize
Once you’re in London, tackle these essentials without delay:
- Money Transfers – As an overseas student, find a trustworthy and cost-effective method to send money from your home country. Services like Wise or Revolut provide more favorable exchange rates.
- UK SIM Card – Obtain a UK SIM card and data promptly to navigate the city efficiently.
- Bank Account – Establish a bank account for everyday transactions and part-time job payments. Digital banks like Monzo or Starling are quick and accommodating to students.
- Student ID Card – Retrieve your student ID card to gain access to campus facilities, libraries, and student discounts.
Your Initial Week at Imperial
Your first week at Imperial is vital. It’s the moment to connect with flatmates, classmates, and potential friends. Engage in Welcome Week to uncover over 350 student-led organizations and clubs. Even if you’re on the shy side, try to get involved; some of my closest friendships were formed during campus tours and society stalls. This week establishes the atmosphere for your academic journey.
Getting Around London: Travel Wisely
During my first week, I was unfamiliar with the Tube or buses and ended up walking nine kilometers across the city. Prevent this by acquiring your Student Oyster card and applying for the 18+ discount for more affordable travel on the Tube and buses. Walking remains an excellent way to explore and find hidden treasures within the city.
Discover Your Comfort Zones
London can feel overwhelming, particularly at first. Identify a comforting location, such as a park, café, or bookstore, where you can unwind and refresh. For me, it’s the park close to my home and the O2, where I relax weekly by catching a movie.
Explore Your Surroundings
Get acquainted with the neighborhoods surrounding your campus and home. Discover nearby supermarkets, pharmacies, parks, and favorite eateries for food or coffee. Explore iconic landmarks, free museums, and take a ride on a classic red double-decker bus. Some of your most cherished memories will arise from unexpected adventures.
Final Pieces of Advice
- Carry a reusable bag to avoid charges for disposable ones.
- Invest in a waterproof jacket; umbrellas don’t fare well against the wind.
- Participate in unique events for unforgettable experiences.
- Don’t fret if you feel disoriented at first; everyone goes through that.
You don’t need to have everything sorted out on day one. If you’re reading this, you’re already ahead of where I stood when I commenced my journey at Imperial. Take a deep breath, grab your Oyster card, and embark on your London adventure one bus ride and Tesco visit at a time.
To learn more about my experiences, read my Imperial story.