Authored by Vijay (India), MSc Strategic Marketing
Stepping into London for the very first time was a lot to take in. The city seemed vast, noisy, and bustling. Armed with only a suitcase and Google Maps, I felt lost on where to start. If you find yourself in a similar predicament, there’s no need to fret. Here’s some guidance to ease your transition into London before you commence at Imperial, allowing you to savor the novelty of the city.
Regardless of whether you arrive a few weeks earlier or just prior to the term’s commencement, here’s the insight I wish had been shared with me upon my arrival.
First order of business: secure your housing
To evade pricey hotel bills, book your lodging in advance. I was lucky, but not everyone is, as the prime options vanish swiftly. Aim for accommodation close to your campus or a dependable Tube line to avoid lengthy commutes for morning classes.
Administrative tasks: handling the necessary details
Upon arriving in London, promptly tackle these vital tasks:
- Money transfers – as an international student, seek an efficient and economical method to transfer funds from your home country. Services like Wise or Revolut provide more favorable exchange rates.
- UK SIM card – obtain one right away for data and navigation in your new surroundings.
- Bank account – digital banks such as Monzo or Starling offer quick and student-friendly setups. Establish an account for everyday transactions and part-time job income.
- Student ID card – crucial for accessing campus facilities, libraries, and student discounts. Acquire it at your earliest convenience.
The initial week at Imperial is the most crucial
Your first week at Imperial is pivotal. It’s the time to meet flatmates, classmates, and potential friends. Participate in Welcome Week to discover over 350 student-run clubs and societies and engage in activities that pique your interest.
Even if you’re hesitant, challenge yourself to get involved. I made lasting friendships during spontaneous campus tours and stalls from various societies. Your initial week sets the foundation for your university experience.
Navigating London: travel wisely
At first, I struggled with the Tube and buses, which led me to walk nine kilometers across London. It was unforgettable but chaotic. Obtain your Student Oyster card and apply for the 18+ discount to travel economically on the Tube and buses.
Walking remains the best way to immerse yourself in the city and uncover hidden treasures.
Establish your comfort zones
London can be emotionally taxing. Having a go-to place is beneficial – for me, it’s the park nearby. I visit daily to unwind and reset. The O2, just a 10-minute journey away, is another go-to location where I catch movies weekly.
Identify your own favored spots, be it a cafe, bookstore, or riverside bench, for relaxation and rejuvenation.
And remember to discover!
Get familiar with the areas surrounding your campus and residence. Find the closest supermarket, pharmacy, parks, and your go-to food or coffee spots.
Visit iconic sites, explore free museums, take a ride on a red double-decker bus, and wander without a specific plan. Some of your fondest memories will arise from adventures off the beaten path!
Final pointers before diving into Imperial student life
- Get a reusable tote – shops often impose charges for single-use bags.
- Invest in a waterproof jacket – umbrellas don’t hold up well against the wind.
- Embrace unusual events – they turn into great anecdotes.
- Feeling lost is normal – everyone experiences it at first.
You don’t 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 began my journey at Imperial. Take a deep breath, grab your Oyster card, and embark on your London adventure one bus ride and Tesco visit at a time.
To learn more about my journey, check out my Imperial story.