Authored by Vijay (India), MSc Strategic Marketing
Stepping into London for the first time was quite a lot to take in, with its expansiveness and rapid pace. With just a suitcase and Google Maps in hand, I felt uncertain about where to start. If you’re preparing for a similar adventure, don’t stress. Here’s some guidance to help you acclimatize to London before launching your journey at Imperial, enabling you to truly savor the experience in your new city.
No matter if you arrive weeks ahead of schedule or just before the semester begins, here’s the advice I would have appreciated receiving when I first got here.
Prioritize: secure your accommodation
Prevent expensive hotel bills by organizing your living arrangements in advance. I was lucky, but many aren’t, as the top places vanish quickly. Aim to locate a residence close to your campus or a dependable Tube route to minimize lengthy commutes for morning classes.
Administrative tasks: taking care of vital necessities
As soon as you land in London, attend to these essentials without delay:
- Money transfers – being an international student, discover a dependable and cost-effective method to send money from home. Services such as Wise or Revolut provide more favorable exchange rates.
- UK SIM card – quickly obtain a UK SIM card and data to avoid getting disoriented in unfamiliar areas without guidance.
- Bank account creation – digital banks like Monzo or Starling are quick and suitable for students, vital for day-to-day transactions and earnings from part-time jobs.
- Student ID card – acquire this as early as possible for access to campus facilities, libraries, and student discounts.
The first week at Imperial holds significant importance
Your inaugural week at Imperial is vital for establishing your student life. This is the perfect opportunity to meet flatmates, classmates, and future friends. Participate in Welcome Week to explore over 350 student-led clubs and societies, engaging in activities that pique your interest.
Even if you feel reserved, make an effort to engage. I did, and I formed some of my closest friendships during campus tours and society gatherings. Your first week sets the precedent for your university experience.
Getting around London: travel wisely
During my initial week, I was unfamiliar with the Tube or bus systems, leading me to walk nine kilometers across London. It was an unforgettable, albeit frantic, experience. Obtain your Student Oyster card and apply for the 18+ discount for economical travel on the Tube and bus services.
Walking remains a fantastic way to uncover and experience the hidden treasures of London.
Locate your safe havens
London can feel daunting, particularly at first. Having a go-to spot is beneficial – mine happens to be a local park I frequent daily for relaxation. Another is the O2, merely 10 minutes away, where I indulge in a movie every week.
Seek out your own comfort zones, be it a café, bookstore, or riverside seat, for unwinding and rejuvenation.
And don’t overlook exploring!
Get acquainted with the neighborhoods surrounding your campus and residence. Identify your nearest grocery store, pharmacy, parks, and preferred dining or coffee locations.
Explore iconic landmarks and your new city during weekends. Enjoy complimentary museums, ride a classic red double-decker bus, and stroll without a precise agenda. Some of your most cherished memories will arise from moments of exploration!
Final pointers before you dive into your Imperial student life
- Utilize a reusable bag – shops typically charge for single-use alternatives.
- Invest in a waterproof jacket – umbrellas tend to be ineffective against wind.
- Participate in unique events – they provide memorable tales.
- Don’t fret if you feel disoriented – it’s a common initial experience.
You aren’t required 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 moment to breathe, grab your Oyster card, and commence your London adventure one red bus ride and Tesco visit at a time.
To learn more about my experiences, <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 in a