By Vijay (India), MSc Strategic Marketing
Stepping into London was initially a lot for me to handle. The city seemed vast, loud, and incredibly fast. With just a suitcase and Google Maps in hand, I felt lost on where to start. If you find yourself in a similar predicament, there’s no need to fret. Here are some tips to help you adjust to London life before commencing your journey at Imperial, enabling you to savor your fresh urban adventure.
Whether you arrive weeks in advance or just moments before term starts, this guidance would have been essential for me during my initial arrival.
Secure Housing First
Prevent expensive hotel expenses by organizing your accommodation in advance. I was lucky, but that’s not the case for everyone. The best choices fill up fast, so try to secure a place near your campus or close to a reliable Tube line to avoid lengthy commutes for morning classes.
Important Life Administration
Upon your arrival in London, focus on these essential tasks:
- Money transfers – as an international student, find a trustworthy and economical method to transfer funds from home. Services like Wise or Revolut offer competitive rates.
- UK SIM card – make sure you have data for navigation by obtaining a UK SIM card right away.
- Bank account – while some banks may ask for a UK address, digital banks like Monzo or Starling are quick to set up and student-friendly. Establish an account for everyday expenses and part-time salary deposits.
- Student ID card – this provides entry to campus facilities, library access, and student discounts. Obtain it as soon as possible.
Maximize Your Initial Week at Imperial
Your initial week is vital for your student journey. It’s the opportunity to connect with flatmates, classmates, and potential friends. Participate in Welcome Week to discover over 350 student-run clubs and societies and engage in activities that captivate you.
Even if you’re not outgoing, make an effort to join in. I did, and I ended up meeting close friends through campus tours and society showcases. The tone for your university experience is set in your first week.
Navigate London Efficiently
During my first week, I struggled to understand the Tube or buses, resulting in me walking nine kilometers across London. It was a memorable experience but rather chaotic. Avoid this by obtaining your Student Oyster card early and applying for the 18+ discount for reduced Tube and bus fares.
Walking remains a fantastic way to discover the city and uncover hidden treasures.
Identify Your Comfort Zones
London can feel emotionally intense, especially at the outset. Having a comfort zone is beneficial – mine is a nearby park where I unwind daily. The O2, just a 10-minute walk away, is another place of solace where I enjoy weekly movies.
Discover your own retreats, whether it’s a café, bookstore, or a bench by the river, to help you unwind and recharge.
Discover the City
Familiarize yourself with the areas you will frequent around campus and your residence. Identify the closest supermarket, pharmacy, parks, and your preferred dining or coffee establishments.
Explore iconic sights, visit free museums, take a ride on a double-decker bus for the scenic view, and allow yourself to wander aimlessly. Some of your most cherished memories will come from moments of getting slightly lost!
Final Suggestions Before Beginning at Imperial
- Carry a reusable bag – stores commonly charge for disposable ones.
- Invest in a waterproof jacket – umbrellas aren’t very effective against wind.
- Join in on unusual events – they create memorable stories.
- Don’t be concerned if you feel disoriented – everyone experiences that initially.
You don’t need to have everything figured out on your first day. If you’re seeing this, you’re already further ahead than I was when I started at Imperial. Take a deep breath, pick up your Oyster card, and kick off your London adventure one bus ride and Tesco visit at a time.
To learn more about my experiences, check out my Imperial story.