Authored by Vijay (India), MSc Strategic Marketing
When I arrived in London for the first time, the city struck me as vast, noisy, rapid, and a bit daunting. Armed with only a suitcase and Google Maps, I felt lost on where to start. If you find yourself in a similar situation, there’s no need for concern. Here’s a guide to help you kickstart your new life in London before your time at Imperial, allowing you to embrace the city.
Whether you come weeks ahead of time or just prior to the term kicking off, here are the tips I wish someone had shared with me.
Secure accommodation
Sidestep pricey hotel charges by organizing your lodging in advance. I was lucky, but not everyone has that luxury. The best places go fast, so seek out options close to your campus or a dependable Tube line to prevent long travel times.
Administrative tasks: organizing necessities
Once you land in London, tackle these key matters:
- Money transfers – as an international student, discover a trustworthy method to move funds from home. Platforms like Wise or Revolut provide competitive rates.
- UK SIM card – obtain one promptly to ensure you have mobile data for navigation in a new city.
- Bank account – some banking institutions may require a UK address, yet digital banks such as Monzo or Starling are quick and favorable for students. Open an account for everyday spending and part-time job deposits.
- Student ID card – critical for accessing campus facilities, libraries, and student deals. Collect it without delay.
The initial week at Imperial is essential
Your first week at Imperial is crucial to your student experience. Meet your flatmates, classmates, and future friends. Take part in Welcome Week to discover over 350 student-led groups and organizations, and get involved in what captivates you.
Even if you are introverted, make an effort to engage. I formed some of my closest friendships during campus tours and society fairs. Your first week will set the course for your university adventure.
Getting around London: travel wisely
In my first week, I was unfamiliar with the Tube and buses, and I ended up walking nine kilometers across London. It was unforgettable yet chaotic. Secure your Student Oyster card and apply for the 18+ discount to travel affordably on the Tube and buses.
Walking remains a fantastic way to uncover the city and its hidden treasures.
Identify your favorite spots
London can feel intense, especially at the start. Having a cozy place to retreat is beneficial. For me, it’s the park by my home and the O2 for weekly movie outings. Discover your own comfort zones, whether it’s a cafe, bookstore, or riverside seat, where you can unwind and recharge.
Discover!
Familiarize yourself with the areas you’ll frequent around campus and your home. Locate nearby supermarkets, pharmacies, parks, and your favorite dining or coffee establishments.
Visit iconic sights, check out free museums, ride a double-decker bus, and take leisurely strolls without a set plan. Some of your most cherished memories will come from getting a little lost.
Last pieces of advice before immersing yourself in Imperial student life
- Purchase a reusable bag – shops impose charges for single-use bags.
- Invest in a waterproof jacket – umbrellas can be futile in the wind.
- Embrace unusual events – they create memorable stories.
- Do not fret if you feel disoriented – everyone experiences that at first.
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. Take a deep breath, grab your Oyster card, and begin your London narrative one bus ride and Tesco visit at a time.
To discover more about my experiences, read my Imperial story.