Written by Vijay (India), MSc Strategic Marketing
Upon my initial arrival in London, I perceived the city as immense, noisy, and somewhat intimidating. Armed with merely a suitcase and Google Maps, I felt confused. If you’re about to undergo this experience, don’t fret. Here’s my guidance to aid your transition into London before commencing at Imperial, allowing you to relish the city.
Whether you show up weeks in advance or just before classes start, here’s the guidance I wish I had been given.
Top priority: secure housing
Prevent expensive hotel expenses by organizing your housing in advance. I was lucky, but not everyone is, as the finest options vanish swiftly. Strive to reside near your campus or a dependable Tube line to avoid extended commutes to early morning lectures.
Key life administrative tasks
Upon arriving in London, promptly tackle these essentials:
- Handling finances – as an international student, discover an economical method to transfer funds from your home country. Applications like Wise or Revolut provide favorable exchange rates.
- Obtaining a UK SIM card – vital for data and navigation in an unfamiliar city. Acquire one soon after your arrival.
- Establishing a bank account – digital banks such as Monzo or Starling are efficient and cater to students. You’ll require an account for daily transactions and part-time employment.
- Retrieving your student ID card – this allows access to campus amenities, libraries, and student discounts. Secure it at your earliest convenience.
The significance of your inaugural week at Imperial
Your first week at Imperial is vital. It’s when you will meet flatmates, classmates, and potential friends. Participate in Welcome Week to discover over 350 student-led clubs and societies and join those that pique your interest.
Even if you feel shy, attempt to engage. I did and made some of my closest friends during campus tours and society events. This week establishes the mood for your university journey.
Travel wisely in London
At first, I struggled with the Tube and buses, leading me to walk nine kilometers across London. It was unforgettable but chaotic. Secure your Student Oyster card and apply for the 18+ discount for reduced fares on the Tube and buses.
Walking remains the optimal way to experience the city and its culture, unveiling hidden treasures.
Identify your favorite spots
London can be quite overwhelming, especially initially. Having a favorite spot aids – mine happens to be a nearby park where I relax daily. Another is the O2, just a 10-minute walk away, where I enjoy a movie once a week.
Find your own places, be it a café, bookstore, or a riverside bench, to unwind and recharge.
Discover the city!
Get acquainted with the areas surrounding your campus and home. Pinpoint your closest supermarket, pharmacy, parks, and preferred dining or coffee locations.
Visit iconic landmarks, explore complimentary museums, ride a red double-decker bus, and meander aimlessly. Some of your fondest memories will emerge from being a bit lost!
Final suggestions before you embark on Imperial student life
- Utilize a reusable bag – shops impose charges for single-use bags.
- Invest in a waterproof jacket – umbrellas can be ineffective in windy weather.
- Attend unique events – they yield fascinating stories.
- Don’t worry about feeling disoriented – it’s perfectly normal at first.
You don’t need to have everything sorted on day one. If you’re reading this, you’re already in a better position than I was when I began at Imperial. Take a moment, grab your Oyster card, and start your London adventure one bus journey and Tesco visit at a time.
To find out more about my experiences, read my Imperial story.