By Vijay (India), MSc Strategic Marketing
Stepping into London for the first time was a lot to take in. The city appeared vast, noisy, and incredibly fast-paced. Armed with only a suitcase and Google Maps, I felt a bit lost on where to start. If you find yourself in a similar predicament, don’t fret. Here’s some guidance to help you adjust before embarking on your journey at Imperial, allowing you to fully embrace your new life in the city.
Regardless of whether you arrive weeks ahead of time or right before classes commence, here’s the counsel I wish I had received.
Secure Accommodation
Steer clear of pricey hotel stays by sorting out housing in advance. I was lucky, but that’s not the case for everyone. The prime options get taken up quickly, so aim to find a place close to the campus or along a dependable Tube line to minimize lengthy commutes for early morning lectures.
Important Life Administration
Once you’ve arrived in London, take care of these necessities:
- Money transfers – as an international student, identify a trustworthy and budget-friendly method for transferring funds from home. Services like Wise or Revolut provide favorable exchange rates.
- UK SIM card – obtain one right away to ensure you aren’t stranded without data in an unfamiliar city.
- Bank account – digital banks such as Monzo or Starling are efficient and cater to students. Establish an account for routine transactions and payment from part-time jobs.
- Student ID card – vital for accessing campus facilities, libraries, and discounts for students. Get it as soon as you can.
Maximize Your Initial Week at Imperial
Your first week is pivotal for establishing your student experience. Meet your flatmates, classmates, and potential friends. Participate in Welcome Week and check out over 350 student-driven clubs and societies. Even if you’re reserved, challenge yourself to join in. I forged some of my closest friendships during spontaneous campus tours and society booths. This week lays the groundwork for your university adventure.
Travel Wisely in London
During my initial week, I found myself walking nine kilometers through London due to confusion regarding the Tube and bus systems. It was an unforgettable but hectic experience. Obtain your Student Oyster card and request the 18+ discount for affordable travel. Walking remains an excellent way to discover the city and uncover hidden treasures.
Identify Your Relaxation Spots
London can be quite daunting, particularly at first. Having a go-to relaxation spot is beneficial – mine is a nearby park where I unwind daily. The O2, merely 10 minutes away, is another preferred location for enjoying a movie. Discover your own places, be it a café, bookstore, or a riverside bench, where you can decompress and recharge.
Discover the City
Familiarize yourself with your new area around campus and your residence. Figure out where the nearest supermarket, pharmacy, parks, and your favorite eateries or coffee shops are located. Explore iconic landmarks, visit free museums, and relish the view from a red double-decker bus. Some of your most cherished memories will stem from getting a bit lost.
Closing Advice for Beginning at Imperial
- Carry a reusable bag – stores frequently impose charges for single-use ones.
- Get a waterproof jacket – umbrellas tend to be ineffective in gusty conditions.
- Participate in unique events – they often lead to fantastic stories.
- Don’t stress if you feel disoriented – it’s completely normal at the beginning.
You’re not required to have everything sorted on your first day. If you’re reading this, you’re already ahead of where I was when I began at Imperial. Take a moment to breathe, grab your Oyster card, and commence your London journey one bus ride and Tesco visit at a time.
To discover more about my experiences, read my Imperial narrative.