Authored by Vijay (India), MSc Strategic Marketing
Stepping foot in London for the first time was quite a lot to take in. The city felt immense, noisy, and bustling. Armed only with a suitcase and Google Maps, I was perplexed about where to start. If you’re facing this experience, don’t fret. Here’s my guidance to assist you in acclimating to London prior to beginning at Imperial, so you can relish your new urban life.
Whether you’re landing weeks in advance or just before the term kicks off, I’m sharing the advice I wish I had.
First things first: secure a place to live
Lock in your accommodation as soon as possible to steer clear of pricey hotel costs. I was lucky, but not everyone has the same fortune, as the top choices get snatched up quickly. Strive to reside close to your campus or on a dependable Tube line to prevent lengthy commutes for early classes.
Life admin: taking care of essential tasks
Upon arriving in London, tackle these essential tasks without delay:
- Money transfers – as an international student, seek out a trustworthy and cost-effective method to transfer funds from home. Services like Wise or Revolut provide favorable exchange rates.
- UK SIM card – obtain one at once to guarantee you have data for navigation in a new city.
- Bank account – digital banking options like Monzo or Starling are swift and catered to students. Establish an account for everyday expenses and part-time job wages.
- Student ID card – crucial for accessing campus facilities, libraries, and student discounts. Retrieve it as early as possible.
Your initial week at Imperial is the most significant
Your inaugural week at Imperial is vital. It’s when you’ll encounter flatmates, classmates, and potential friends. Participate in Welcome Week to discover over 350 student-led clubs and societies, getting involved in what piques your interest.
Even if you’re introverted, make an effort to engage. I did, and I found some of my closest friends during campus tours and society stalls. Your first week establishes the foundation for your university adventure.
Getting around London: travel wisely
During my first week, I trekked nine kilometers across London due to confusion with the Tube and bus systems. It was unforgettable but disorganized. Obtain your Student Oyster card and apply for the 18+ discount for economical travel.
Walking remains the best way to absorb the city’s atmosphere and culture. You’ll stumble upon hidden treasures by meandering around.
Discover your comfort zones
London can be emotionally taxing, particularly at first. Identifying a comfort zone is beneficial – mine is a nearby park where I retreat daily to unwind. Another is the O2, only 10 minutes away, where I relax weekly with a film.
Seek out your own comfort areas, like a cafe, bookstore, or riverside bench. These locations provide a moment to recharge and rejuvenate.
And don’t forget to wander!
Get to know the districts surrounding your campus and residence. Pinpoint your nearest grocery store, pharmacy, parks, and favorite food or coffee haunts.
Explore iconic landmarks, visit free museums, and ride a red double-decker bus for a scenic view. Some of your fondest memories will arise from embracing a little adventure!
Final pointers before you immerse yourself in Imperial student life
- Get a reusable bag – stores charge for single-use ones.
- Invest in a waterproof jacket – umbrellas struggle in the wind.
- Say yes to unusual activities – they make for excellent stories.
- Don’t stress if you feel disoriented – everyone experiences this initially.
You don’t need to have every detail sorted on day one. If you’re reading this, you’re already ahead of where I was when I began at Imperial. So take a deep breath, pick up your Oyster card, and commence your London narrative one red bus journey and Tesco visit at a time.
To learn more about my adventures, click here.