By Vijay (India), MSc Strategic Marketing
Stepping into London for the first time was quite a lot to handle. The city seemed enormous, noisy, and fast-paced. With only a suitcase and Google Maps, I felt lost on where to start. If you’re about to go through this, don’t fret. Here’s my guidance for getting settled in London before your journey at Imperial, so you can take pleasure in the city.
Whether you come weeks in advance or just prior to the term, here are the suggestions I wish I had received.
Find a place to live
Prevent expensive hotel stays by securing accommodation ahead of time. I was in luck, but that’s not the case for everyone. The top options disappear quickly! Aim to reside near your campus or a dependable Tube line to sidestep long journeys for early classes.
Life admin: essentials to take care of
Once you’re in London, promptly handle these essentials:
- Money transfers – as an international student, seek a trustworthy and affordable method for sending money from home. Applications such as Wise or Revolut provide competitive exchange rates.
- UK SIM card – having data is essential for navigation. Obtain a UK SIM card and data shortly after arriving.
- Bank account – some banks necessitate a UK address, but online banks like Monzo or Starling are swift and student-friendly. Open an account for daily transactions and part-time job deposits.
- Student ID card – necessary for accessing campus facilities, libraries, and student discounts. Retrieve it at your earliest convenience.
The significance of your first week at Imperial
Your initial week at Imperial is vital. It’s when you’ll meet flatmates, classmates, and future companions. Participate in Welcome Week to discover over 350 student-led clubs and societies and engage in what captures your interest.
Even if you’re timid, challenge yourself to join in. I did, and forged close friendships during campus tours and society fairs. Your first week establishes the tone for your university experience.
Navigating London: travel wisely
During my first week, I was unfamiliar with the Tube or buses, so I trekked nine kilometres across London. It was chaotic yet unforgettable. Aim to avoid my blunder. Obtain a Student Oyster card and apply for the 18+ discount for economical travel on the Tube and buses.
Walking remains the finest way to experience the city and its culture. Uncover hidden treasures by meandering around.
Identify your comfort zones
London may feel emotionally taxing, especially at first. Having a comforting spot helps – mine is a local park. I frequent it daily to breathe and rejuvenate. My second location is the O2, merely 10 minutes away, where I enjoy movies weekly to relax.
Discover your own comforting places, whether it’s a cafe, bookstore, or riverside bench. These areas are essential for unwinding and refreshing.
Discover the city!
Familiarize yourself with frequently visited areas near campus and home. Identify your closest supermarket, pharmacy, parks, and favorite dining or coffee spots.
Explore iconic landmarks. Spend weekends discovering your new city. Visit free museums, ride a red double-decker bus for the view, and wander aimlessly. Some of your fondest memories will arise from getting a little lost!
Final advice before immersing in Imperial student life
- Utilize a reusable bag – shops frequently charge for single-use ones.
- Purchase a waterproof jacket – umbrellas don’t hold up well against the wind.
- Participate in unique events – they create great stories.
- Don’t fret if you feel disoriented – everyone does initially.
You don’t need to have everything sorted on day one. If you’re reading this, you’re already ahead of where I was when I began at Imperial. Take a deep breath, grab your Oyster card, and start 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