By Vijay (India), MSc Strategic Marketing
Stepping into London for the very first time was quite a lot to take in. The city felt immense, noisy, and full of energy. Armed with only a suitcase and Google Maps, I was at a loss on where to start. If you find yourself in a similar predicament, don’t stress. Here are some tips to guide you as you adjust to life in London before your journey at Imperial begins, enabling you to make the most of your new city adventure.
No matter if you arrive weeks in advance or just on the eve of the term, here’s the counsel I wish I had received upon my arrival.
Secure Your Accommodation
It’s wise to arrange your accommodation in advance to steer clear of expensive hotel fees. I was lucky, but that’s not the case for everyone. The top choices disappear fast, so try to find a location close to your campus or a dependable Tube line to prevent lengthy trips for your morning lectures.
Key Administrative Tasks
Upon your arrival in London, promptly take care of these crucial tasks:
- Money transfers – as an international student, find a trustworthy and cost-effective method to send money from home. Platforms like Wise or Revolut provide excellent exchange rates.
- UK SIM card – acquire one swiftly to ensure you have data for navigation in your new environment.
- Open a bank account – digital banks like Monzo or Starling are quick to set up and cater to students. Create an account for day-to-day transactions and payments from part-time jobs.
- Student ID card – vital for accessing campus facilities, libraries, and obtaining student discounts. Secure it as early as possible.
Maximize Your Initial Week at Imperial
Your inaugural week at Imperial is pivotal for your university experience. It’s the perfect opportunity to meet flatmates, classmates, and future friendships. Participate in Welcome Week to discover over 350 student-run clubs and societies, and enroll in activities that pique your interest.
Even if you’re introverted, challenge yourself to get involved. I did, and I made many of my closest friends during campus tours and society gatherings. Your first week lays the groundwork for your university adventure.
Navigate London Wisely
In my first week, I was unfamiliar with the Tube or bus systems and ended up traversing nine kilometers on foot throughout London. It was a memorable adventure but quite hectic. Avoid my blunder by acquiring a Student Oyster card and applying for the 18+ discount for more affordable Tube and bus fares.
Walking remains an excellent way to soak in the city and uncover hidden treasures.
Discover Your Comfort Zones
London can be emotionally taxing, especially at the beginning. Having a place of comfort is beneficial – mine is a local park I visit daily to unwind. The O2, just a short 10-minute stroll away, serves as my secondary comfort zone for weekly film nights.
Identify your own havens, whether it’s a cafe, a bookstore, or a bench by the river, to relax and recharge.
Uncover the City
Get acquainted with your new locale, encompassing both campus and residence. Identify the closest supermarket, pharmacy, parks, and your preferred dining or coffee spots.
Explore well-known landmarks, visit free museums, hop on a red double-decker bus, and meander without a set plan. Some of your most cherished memories will stem from those moments of getting a little lost!
Final Suggestions for Beginning at Imperial
- Carry a reusable bag – shops frequently impose charges for single-use bags.
- Invest in a waterproof jacket – umbrellas are of little use against wind-driven rain.
- Join unconventional events – they lead to great stories.
- Don’t panic if you feel disoriented – it’s a common experience initially.
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 was when I commenced at Imperial. Take a moment to breathe, grab your Oyster card, and start your London adventure one bus journey and Tesco visit at a time.
To discover more about my journey, read my Imperial story.