By Vijay (India), MSc Strategic Marketing
Upon my first arrival in London, I found the city to be vast, noisy, brisk, and a bit intimidating. Armed with only a suitcase and Google Maps, I felt uncertain about where to start. If you find yourself in a similar boat, don’t fret. Here are some tips to kickstart your new life in London before you begin at Imperial, allowing you to savor the city.
Regardless of whether you arrive weeks in advance or just before the term starts, here’s the guidance I wish I had received upon my entry.
Secure your housing
By booking accommodation early, you can avoid pricey hotels. I was lucky in my search, but many aren’t, as the top choices fill up fast. Seek a residence close to your campus or along a dependable Tube line to minimize long journeys to early classes.
Administrative tasks: organizing necessities
Once you’re in London, promptly take care of these essentials:
- Currency transfers – as an international student, discover a trustworthy, economical option to transfer money from home. Services like Wise or Revolut provide better exchange rates.
- UK SIM card – acquire one right away for data and navigation in a new environment.
- Bank account – although some banks require a UK address, digital banks like Monzo or Starling are quick and accommodating for students. Open an account for everyday transactions and payments from part-time jobs.
- Student ID card – crucial for access to campus, library services, and student discounts. Obtain one as soon as you can.
The initial week at Imperial is pivotal
Your debut week at Imperial is essential for your student journey. Meet your flatmates, classmates, and potential lifelong friends. Participate in Welcome Week to discover over 350 student-organized clubs and societies, and enroll in activities that pique your interest.
Even if you’re an introvert, challenge yourself to get involved. I forged close friendships during campus explorations and society fairs. Your first week establishes the foundation for your university experience.
Getting around London: travel wisely
In my first week, I struggled with the Tube and buses, ending up walking nine kilometers across London. It was memorable yet chaotic. Acquire a Student Oyster card and apply for the 18+ discount for reduced fares on the Tube and buses.
Walking remains the best way to immerse yourself in the city and its culture, uncovering hidden treasures by meandering.
Identify your comforting spots
London can feel emotionally intense, particularly at the start. Having a comfort zone helps – mine is a park nearby where I visit daily to unwind. My other spot is the O2, just a ten-minute distance, where I relax weekly with a movie.
Discover your own cozy places, like a cafe, bookstore, or riverside bench, to recharge and reset.
Discover!
Familiarize yourself with the areas you’ll frequent around campus and your residence. Locate your closest grocery store, pharmacy, parks, and favorite eateries or cafes.
Tour famous sights, explore no-cost museums, ride a red double-decker bus for the view, and wander aimlessly. Some of your most cherished memories will stem from getting slightly lost!
Final pointers before plunging into student life at Imperial
- Get a reusable bag – stores frequently charge for disposable ones.
- Purchase a waterproof jacket – umbrellas won’t suffice in the wind.
- Embrace unusual events – they lead to fantastic stories.
- Don’t stress if you feel disoriented – it’s a common feeling at first.
You don’t have to have everything sorted out on the first day. If you’re reading this, you’re already ahead of where I stood when I began at Imperial. Take a deep breath, grab your Oyster card, and start your London adventure one red bus ride and Tesco visit at a time.
To delve deeper into my journey, read my Imperial narrative.