Authored by Vijay (India), MSc Strategic Marketing
Stepping into London for the first time was a bit much. The city felt vast, noisy, and bustling. Armed with just a suitcase and Google Maps, I was uncertain about my starting point. If you find yourself in a similar place, don’t fret. Here’s some guidance to ease your transition into London prior to beginning at Imperial, allowing you to fully embrace the novelty of the city.
Whether you arrive a few weeks early or just in time for the start of term, here’s the guidance I wish I had received upon my arrival.
First things first: secure accommodation
Steer clear of pricey hotel stays by securing a place to live ahead of time. I was lucky, but many aren’t, as the top choices fill up fast. Seek accommodation close to your campus or a reliable Tube line to avoid lengthy journeys for morning lectures.
Essential tasks: handling the necessary details
Upon your arrival in London, address these vital necessities promptly:
- Money transfers – as an international student, discover a trustworthy and cost-effective method to send money from home. Services like Wise or Revolut provide favorable exchange rates.
- UK SIM card – secure one swiftly to ensure you have data for navigation in unfamiliar areas.
- Bank account – while some banks require a UK address, digital banks such as Monzo or Starling are quick to set up and cater well to students. Open an account for daily expenses and part-time job earnings.
- Student ID card – essential for accessing campus facilities, libraries, and student discounts. Obtain it as quickly as possible.
The initial week at Imperial is crucial
Your first week at Imperial is vital. It’s when you connect with flatmates, classmates, and potential friends. Take advantage of Welcome Week to check out over 350 student-run clubs and societies and engage in activities that pique your interest.
Even if you consider yourself shy, attempt to join in. I did and made some of my closest friends during campus tours and society displays. This first week establishes the groundwork for your university experience.
Getting around London: travel wisely
In my initial week, I struggled with the Tube and buses and ended up walking nine kilometers across London. It was a memorable experience, albeit chaotic. Acquire your Student Oyster card and apply for the 18+ discount to travel economically.
Walking remains a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the city and uncover hidden treasures.
Identify your comfort zones
London can be emotionally intense, especially at the start. Having a comfort area helps – mine is the park near my residence. I go there daily to unwind. My second favorite spot is the O2, just 10 minutes away, where I enjoy weekly movie viewings.
Locate your own zones, whether it’s a café, bookstore, or riverside bench, where you can take a break and recharge.
And don’t forget to explore!
Familiarize yourself with your frequently visited locations around campus and home. Discover local grocery stores, pharmacies, parks, and your go-to food or coffee places.
Check out iconic landmarks, visit free museums, ride a red double-decker bus, and wander aimlessly. Some of your fondest memories will stem from getting a bit lost!
Final tips before immersing yourself in Imperial student life
- Carry a reusable bag – shops charge for single-use ones.
- Invest in a waterproof jacket – umbrellas often don’t hold up in windy weather.
- Participate in unique events – they lead to great stories.
- Don’t stress if you feel disoriented – it’s completely normal at first.
You don’t need to have everything sorted from day one. If you’re reading this, you’re already a step ahead of where I was upon starting at Imperial. So take a deep 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, <a href="https://www.imperial.ac.uk/Stories/my-imperial-story-vijay/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" aria-label="https://www.imperial.ac.uk/Stories/my-imperial-story-vijay/ (Opens in a new