Written by Vijay (India), MSc Strategic Marketing
When I first landed in London, it felt massive. Everything was too loud, too fast and a bit overwhelming. I had no clue what to do or where to start with just a suitcase in one hand and Google Maps in the other. If this sounds like it’ll be you soon, don’t worry. Here’s my advice for getting your new life in London on track before you start at Imperial, so you can actually enjoy everything that comes with being new in the city.
Whether you’re arriving a few weeks early or just before term starts, here’s the advice I wish someone had given me when I first arrived.
First things first: find a place to live
Unless you enjoy paying hundreds of pounds per night for a hotel, sort your accommodation early. I got lucky, but not everyone does because the best options go fast! Try to find something close to your campus or at least near a reliable Tube line – those early morning lectures are not kind if you live over an hour away.
Life admin: sorting out the necessary essentials
There are a few things you should ideally sort as soon as possible once you get to London:
- How to send or receive money – if you’re an international student like me, you’ll need a reliable and affordable way to get money from your home country. Apps like Wise or Revolut saved me from terrible exchange rates.
- Getting a UK SIM card – no data means no directions and that’s not a good place to start when you’re in a completely new area or country! Get a UK SIM card and data as soon as possible after landing.
- Setting up a bank account – some banks need a UK address, but digital banks like Monzo or Starling are fast and student-friendly. You’ll need to set up a bank account as soon as possible for your usual day-to-day transactions and also to get paid for any part-time work you do while studying.
- Picking up your student ID card – this unlocks everything: campus buildings, being able to use the library, student discounts at restaurants and retailers – everything! Pick your student ID card up as soon as you can.
The first week at Imperial is the most important
Seriously, your first week at Imperial is one of the most important parts of your student experience. This is when you’ll meet your flatmates, classmates and future friends. Make sure to engage with Welcome Week to explore over 350 student-led clubs and societies and sign up to get involved with the things that interest you.
Even if you’re shy, try to push yourself to show up. I did and I met some of my closest friends during random campus tours and at different society stalls. Your first week at Imperial really sets the tone for the rest of your university journey.
Navigating London: travel smart
True story, during my first week, I didn’t understand the Tube or buses, so I just walked nine kilometres across London to explore the city. It was a chaotic but memorable day – but don’t do what I did. Get your Student Oyster card as soon as you’re able to and apply for the 18+ discount so you can ride the Tube and buses around London for cheaper.
That said, I find walking is still the best way to get a feel for the city and culture. There’s lots of hidden gems in London that you’ll find just by wandering around.
Find your comfort places
London can feel emotionally overwhelming, especially at the start. Having a comfort spot really helps – for me, it’s the park near my house. I go there every day just to breathe and reset. My second comfort place is the O2 that is just 10 minutes away from home, which I visit weekly to watch a movie and unwind.
You can find your own spots like these that can help bring you comfort in the big city, it might be a cafe, a bookstore or a riverside bench. Having this space to just relax and reset is so much more helpful than you think.
And don’t forget to explore!
I’d highly recommend getting to know your new most-visited areas around campus and home. Find your closest local supermarket, pharmacy, parks and green spaces and your new favourite places to grab food or a coffee.
The famous landmarks are also worth visiting. Spend your weekends discovering your new city. Go to the free museums. Ride a red double-decker bus just for the view. Walk around without a plan. Some of your best memories will come from getting a little lost!
Final tips before you dive in to Imperial student life
- Get a reusable bag – supermarkets and shops often charge for single-use ones.
- Buy a waterproof jacket – umbrellas won’t keep you dry when the wind hits.
- Say yes to the more ‘unusual’ events – they make the best stories.
- Don’t panic if you feel a bit lost – everyone does at the start.
You don’t have to have everything figured out on day one. If you’re reading this, you’re already ahead of where I was when I first started at Imperial – so take a breath, grab your Oyster card and begin your London story one red bus ride and Tesco trip at a time.
To find out more about my experiences, read my Imperial story.
