Student life hacks - our current students give your their top tips

There is no denying it, moving out of a family home and to another country is going to shake up your world. There will be all sorts of differences: cultural, climate, academic, and even getting used to a new currency will seem like a challenge. But we have all been there and, as they say, what doesn’t kill you makes you stronger! With that said, here is my guide on how to survive the first few weeks in the Big Smoke (an affectionate term for London) and avoid the mistakes I have already made.

Be knowledgeable about the city and your social security:

• Figure out your public transport. Citymapper is going to be a life-saviour on multiple occasions – it figures out your route, mode of transport, time and price.

• Get an Oyster instead of paying with your contactless because this is going to be a zillion times more expensive (check the TfL fares and cry!) but don’t necessarily get a student Oyster. They don’t pay off unless you use a monthly ticket and just cost you an extra £20 fee.

• Don’t hail black cabs unless you want to starve for the rest of the month as they can be expensive. Most importantly, don’t take a cab from Heathrow. Uber or Lyft is your go-to service when coming back from that party late at night. Also remember about your personal safety when on a night out. Whatever your gender, a bigger city means you need to be more aware of your personal security as well, even if London hardly wins ‘The Most Dangerous Cities’ rankings.

• When creating that cozy room of yours don’t go to IKEA unless you can arrange for a car to bring back all your newly bought items in. No, seriously, carrying a 30lbs worth of shopping back on the tube from Zone 4 is not fun. IKEA does home deliveries! Alternatively, go with the Students’ Union.

• Register with a GP who will help you combat that freshers’ flu, so don’t put it off forever. Sure, maybe paracetamol will be enough but you don’t want to set yourself back at the beginning of your studies, do you? Keep yourself in good health! (Speaking of which, check out these sports facilities. Pilates class is an absolute killer for my non-existent abs.)

• Don’t be ashamed to use the Student Psychological Services if you need them. The earlier the better: don’t try and play things down until they get too serious. All that stress can take a toll on you and everyone is here to help you and make sure that university is a great experience for you.

Be open-minded and curious

You will encounter things that you’ve never heard about, never seen and never tried. Don’t shy away from asking questions. The British are known for their politeness, which isn’t far from the truth as you will find out while living here. Besides, everyone likes it when you are interested in their culture – so express that interest! However, don’t make the mistake of forsaking your own identity. In fact, there are specific societies that you can join to meet other people from your country who will help you settle in and feel more at home.

Be proactive

There are multiple Freshers’ events that you can attend to meet people. If you decide to go, don’t be afraid of striking up conversations. The biggest advantage of those events (which is why you ought to attend even if you’d rather keep to yourself) is that everyone is in the same situation: probably a little nervous, lonely, and homesick. Don't avoid people – I can guarantee that the students you approach will probably be relieved that you reached out to them!