Written by Vijay (India), MSc Strategic Marketing
Stepping into London for the first time felt quite daunting, with its enormity, clamor, and speed. With just a suitcase and Google Maps in hand, I was uncertain of my first steps. If you’re about to face this, relax. Here’s a guide on acclimating to London before commencing at Imperial, allowing you to relish your new urban lifestyle.
Regardless of whether you arrive weeks in advance or right before term begins, here’s the guidance I wish I’d had upon arrival.
Prioritize Accommodation
Steer clear of expensive hotel stays by organizing accommodation ahead of time. I was lucky, but not everyone has that fortune. Try to secure a place near the campus or on a reliable Tube line to avoid lengthy commutes for morning classes.
Important Life Administration
Upon your arrival, quickly take care of these necessary tasks:
- Money transfers – as an international student, look for a budget-friendly method to send funds from home. Services like Wise or Revolut provide favorable rates.
- UK SIM card – crucial for data and navigation in a new city. Acquire one right away.
- Bank account – while some banks may ask for a UK address, digital options like Monzo or Starling are swift and accommodating for students. Establish an account for everyday transactions and part-time job payments.
- Student ID card – essential for utilizing campus amenities, libraries, and receiving student discounts. Obtain it quickly.
First Week at Imperial is Essential
Your initial week at Imperial is vital for your overall student experience. It’s when you’ll connect with flatmates, classmates, and potential friends. Participate in Welcome Week to discover over 350 student-led clubs and societies and sign up for those that catch your interest.
Even if you’re apprehensive, challenge yourself to get involved. I did and forged some of my closest friendships during spontaneous campus tours and society booths. Your first week lays the groundwork for your university adventure.
Navigate Smartly in London
In my first week, I was unfamiliar with the Tube or buses, so I ended up walking nine kilometers across London, which was chaotic yet unforgettable. Avoid my mistake. Obtain a Student Oyster card and apply for the 18+ discount to travel economically on the Tube and buses.
Nonetheless, walking remains the best way to soak in the city’s culture and uncover hidden treasures.
Discover Your Relaxation Spaces
London can feel emotionally taxing at first. Having a go-to spot for comfort is beneficial – mine is a local park I visit daily to unwind. The O2, a mere 10 minutes away, is another favorite for my weekly movie nights.
Identify your own comfort spaces, whether it’s a cafe, bookstore, or riverside bench, where you can recharge and relax.
Discover the City
Get to know the areas surrounding your campus and residence. Figure out where the nearest supermarket, pharmacy, parks, and your favorite food or coffee shops are located.
Check out iconic landmarks, explore complimentary museums, take a ride on a red double-decker bus for the views, and roam without a set plan. Some of your best experiences will arise from getting a little lost!
Final Insights for Your Start at Imperial
- Carry a reusable bag – stores frequently charge for single-use bags.
- Invest in a waterproof jacket – umbrellas aren’t effective against rain whipped by the wind.
- Participate in unique events – they provide fantastic stories.
- Don’t stress if you feel disoriented – that’s normal at the outset.
You don’t need to have everything sorted on your first day. If you’re reading this, you’re already ahead of where I stood when I began at Imperial. So, take a moment to breathe, grab your Oyster card, and kick off your London journey one red bus ride and Tesco visit at a time.
Discover more about my journey, read about my time at Imperial.