By Vijay (India), MSc Strategic Marketing
Stepping foot in London for the first time was an exhilarating experience. The city seemed vast, loud, and incredibly fast-paced. Armed with only a suitcase and Google Maps, I felt a bit lost about where to start. If you’re about to embark on this adventure, don’t fret. Here’s some guidance to help you adjust to your new life in London before your time at Imperial begins, enabling you to make the most of the city.
No matter if you arrive weeks in advance or just before classes commence, I wish I had received this advice upon my arrival.
Secure Your Accommodation
Steer clear of costly hotel stays by sorting out your accommodation ahead of time. I was lucky, but that’s not the case for everyone. The best placements go quickly, so try to find somewhere close to your campus or a dependable Tube line to avoid long journeys for early classes.
Administrative Tasks: Key Essentials
Once you’re in London, quickly tackle these essentials:
- Money Transfers – As an international student, find a trustworthy and cost-effective method to send money from home. Services like Wise or Revolut helped me sidestep unfavorable exchange rates.
- UK SIM Card – Navigating a new city is tough without data. Obtain a UK SIM card and data plan shortly after you arrive.
- Bank Account – While some banks need a UK address, digital banks like Monzo or Starling are quick and accommodating for students. Open an account for day-to-day transactions and part-time salary deposits.
- Student ID Card – This is vital for accessing campus facilities, libraries, and student discounts. Make sure to collect it at your earliest convenience.
Your First Week at Imperial: Why It Matters
Your inaugural week at Imperial is significant. It’s when you’ll meet flatmates, classmates, and potential friends. Engage with Welcome Week to discover over 350 student-led clubs and societies and dive into what piques your interest.
Even if you’re a bit reserved, attempt to get involved. I formed close friendships during spontaneous campus tours and society stands. Your first week sets the foundation for your university journey.
Smart Travel Tips for London
During my first week, I was unfamiliar with the Tube or buses, resulting in a nine-kilometer walk across London. It was chaotic yet memorable. Don’t repeat my error. Acquire a Student Oyster card and apply for the 18+ discount for more affordable Tube and bus travel.
Walking remains an excellent way to discover the city and uncover hidden treasures.
Identify Your Comfort Zones
London can be intimidating, especially at first. Having a place to unwind is helpful. For me, it’s the park nearby, where I visit daily to relax. My second spot is the O2, only 10 minutes away, where I catch movies weekly.
Identify your own comfort zones, whether a café, bookstore, or riverside bench. These spaces provide a chance to recharge and recenter.
Discover the City
Familiarize yourself with the areas you’ll frequent around campus and home. Locate your closest supermarket, pharmacy, parks, and preferred dining or coffee spots.
Check out famous landmarks, explore free museums, ride on a red double-decker bus, and wander spontaneously. Some of your most cherished memories will be made while getting slightly lost.
Essential Tips Before Starting at Imperial
- Bring a reusable bag – Stores often charge for single-use bags.
- Buy a waterproof jacket – Umbrellas don’t hold up well in the wind.
- Participate in unique events – They lead to fantastic stories.
- Don’t stress if you feel disoriented – It’s completely normal at first.
There’s no need to have everything sorted on your first day. If you’re reading this, you’re already ahead of where I was when I began 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 discover more about my journey, read my Imperial story.