Composed by Vijay (India), MSc Strategic Marketing
Stepping into London for the first time was quite a lot to take in. The city appeared vast, noisy, and bustling. With merely a suitcase and Google Maps, I felt uncertain about where to start. If you find yourself in a similar situation, there’s no need to fret. Here are some tips to assist you in acclimating to life in London before you embark on your journey at Imperial, allowing you to relish the experience of being new in the city.
No matter if you’re arriving a few weeks in advance or just on the brink of term commencement, here’s the guidance I wished I had when I first got here.
Firstly: secure a place to reside
Steer clear of pricey hotel rates by arranging accommodation ahead of time. I was fortunate in this regard, but that’s not the case for everyone, as the prime selections disappear rapidly. Try to locate a residence near your campus or along a dependable Tube line to prevent lengthy commutes for early classes.
Administrative matters: taking care of the essential basics
Once you arrive in London, prioritize these tasks:
- Money transfers – as an international student, seek a secure and cost-effective method to transfer funds from your home country. Applications like Wise or Revolut provide favorable exchange rates.
- UK SIM card – obtain one right away to avoid being without data while navigating a new area.
- Bank account – while some banks need a UK address, digital banks like Monzo or Starling are efficient and student-friendly. Establish an account for everyday transactions and payments from part-time work.
- Student ID card – vital for gaining entry to campus facilities, the library, and accessing student discounts. Make sure to collect it as soon as possible.
The initial week at Imperial holds immense significance
Your first week at Imperial is key to shaping your student experience. This is when you’ll meet flatmates, classmates, and future buddies. Get involved with Welcome Week to check out over 350 student-run clubs and societies and participate in what catches your interest.
Even if you tend to be reserved, make an effort to join in. I did and formed some of my closest friendships during campus tours and society events. Your first week sets the foundation for your university adventure.
Getting around London: travel wisely
During my opening week, I trekked nine kilometers across London due to confusion with the Tube and buses. It was unforgettable but somewhat chaotic. Acquire your Student Oyster card and apply for the 18+ discount to travel around London affordably.
Walking remains an excellent way to soak in the city and uncover its hidden treasures.
Discover your favorite spots
Initially, London can feel emotionally intense. Having a go-to space helps – mine is a nearby park where I visit daily to unwind. My secondary comfort zone is the O2, just 10 minutes from my place, where I catch movies weekly.
Identify your own locations, whether it be a cafe, bookstore, or bench by the riverside, to recharge and find relaxation.
And remember to explore!
Familiarize yourself with the areas you frequent around campus and home. Identify your closest supermarket, pharmacy, parks, and favorite eateries or coffee shops.
Check out iconic landmarks, wander through free museums, ride on a red double-decker bus for the views, and meander without a specific plan. Some of your most cherished memories will come from those unexpected adventures!
Final pieces of advice before diving into Imperial student life
- Utilize a reusable bag – shops typically charge for single-use ones.
- Invest in a waterproof jacket – umbrellas aren’t very effective in the wind.
- Participate in unique events – they make for great stories.
- Don’t stress if you feel a bit lost – it’s completely normal at first.
There’s no need to have everything figured out on your first day. If you’re reading this, you’re already ahead of where I stood when I commenced my journey at Imperial. Take a breath, grab your Oyster card, and kick off your London adventure one red bus ride and Tesco visit at a time.
To learn more about my experiences, check out my Imperial story.