Authored by Vijay (India), MSc Strategic Marketing
When I first arrived in London, I perceived the city as vast and daunting, filled with noise and a rapid tempo. With just a suitcase and Google Maps in hand, I felt disoriented. If you find yourself in a similar situation, don’t stress. Here’s how to get your London life organized before beginning at Imperial, allowing you to enjoy the city.
Whether you’re arriving weeks ahead or just before the semester starts, here are the suggestions I wish had been given to me during my initial arrival.
First things first: secure accommodation
Book your lodging early to circumvent costly hotel expenses. I was lucky, but not everyone has that fortune. The prime locations get snapped up fast, so search for something close to your campus or a dependable Tube line to minimize lengthy commutes for morning classes.
Administrative essentials: getting sorted
There are several key tasks to complete upon arriving in London:
- Money transfers – as an international student, identify a trustworthy and cost-effective method for transferring funds from home. Services like Wise or Revolut provide favorable exchange rates.
- UK SIM card – acquire one right away to avoid getting disoriented without data in an unfamiliar city or country.
- Bank account – digital banking options like Monzo or Starling are swift and cater to students, vital for daily purchases and payments from part-time work.
- Student ID card – this is essential for accessing campus locations, libraries, and obtaining student discounts. Retrieve it as soon as you can.
The initial week at Imperial is pivotal
Your first week at Imperial is vital. It’s the time for you to meet flatmates, classmates, and potential friends. Participate in Welcome Week to dive into over 350 student-led groups and activities and engage in what catches your interest.
Even if you’re on the shy side, challenge yourself to join in. I did and met some of my closest companions during campus tours and at society booths. Your first week lays the groundwork for your university experience.
Exploring London: travel wisely
In my first week, I was clueless about the Tube or the buses, leading me to walk nine kilometers around London. It was chaotic yet unforgettable. Avoid making the same mistake. Acquire your Student Oyster card and apply for the 18+ discount to travel affordably.
Walking remains the finest way to absorb the city and its culture. You’ll uncover hidden treasures while meandering.
Establish your comfort zones
London can be emotionally intense, particularly at first. A safe haven is beneficial – mine is the park near my residence. I stop by daily to take a breather and refresh. Another favorite is the O2, just 10 minutes away, where I catch movies weekly.
Identify your own places, whether a cafe, bookstore, or riverside bench, where you can unwind and recharge. It’s more advantageous than you might expect.
And be sure to venture out!
Familiarize yourself with the most frequented places around your campus and home. Locate your nearest supermarket, pharmacy, parks, and preferred spots for meals or coffee.
Tour iconic landmarks, visit free museums, ride a red double-decker bus, and roam without a set plan. Some of your most cherished memories will come from getting slightly lost!
Final pieces of advice before you immerse yourself in Imperial student life
- Get a reusable bag – stores frequently charge for single-use ones.
- Purchase a waterproof jacket – umbrellas won’t keep you dry in the wind.
- Accept invitations to unique events – they lead to great stories.
- Don’t stress if you’re lost – everyone experiences that initially.
You don’t have to have everything sorted on day one. If you’re reading this, you’re already in a better position than I was when I entered Imperial – so take a deep breath, grab your Oyster card, and start your London adventure one bus ride and Tesco visit at a time.
To learn more about my journey, <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