Hritvi R Acharya (Resident at Lilian Knowles House)

Like many people, this was my first time travelling to the United Kingdom. The country was new and exciting but also scary, and I was unsure of many things before I boarded my flight. Now after six months, I have learnt so much about not only London, but also myself. So here goes 7 things I wish someone had told me before I landed in the UK.

1. The public transport is your saviour

If you do not live on campus (or your campus is in the middle of the city like mine is), the bus and the tube will be your new best friends. Luckily, the bus is extremely affordable (£1.75 for one way for me in London). The connectivity they offer is amazing, and you can also easily track them using apps such as Citymapper or public bus websites. You can also get an Oyster card, if you take the tube and connect it to a railcard, which allows you to get off-peak rates.

2. Ask for a student discount. EVERYWHERE!

The UK is a very student-friendly place, with almost every establishment offering some sort of discount via apps or unique offers for students. Most coffee places or restaurants offer welcome snacks or coffees, which can help you explore the city plus get a free treat! Apps and websites such as UNiDAYS, Save the Student and Student Beans give you discount codes for both online and offline shopping. I'd recommend signing up for all of them!

3. Cards run everything

Unlike a lot of countries, the UK is an almost cashless society. Most markets, transport systems and stores accept all cashless methods, including forex cards and bank cards. You can also get a Monzo or Revolut account (online bank accounts) once you come to the UK. No need to carry cash from home unless for emergencies. You won't have to rush to make a bank account immediately in the UK if you can get a forex card.

4. Remember to pack for the weather

The UK can be a terribly confusing place in terms of the weather; some days you'll see rain, sunshine and snow within a span of an hour. It is important to pack a good, heavy rain jacket, along with a sturdy umbrella. At the same time, remember to pack light jackets as well as material which dries easily. Thermals, gloves, beanies and scarves are essential to get by winters. If you live in a city like London, you will be walking a lot, so make sure to bring walking/running shoes as well as rain boots to walk in.

5. Remember to keep an ID on you at all times

You will be asked to show proof of age multiple times at pubs, events or even sometimes at museums. It is best to keep a national ID on hand, as it is safer to do so than your passport. Better safe than sorry!

6. Rules, rules and more rules

You will soon find out that the British are sticklers for rules, especially in public. Remember to stand on the left on the escalator and walk on the right and always queue up. When on a bus which is half empty, never sit next to someone. Also, remember to take care of jaywalking and bumping into people; always say sorry!

7. Best way to find community – uni and hall events

Big cities can be lonely, especially when you are new. In my experience, the best way to mingle with people is by attending events in your university as well as your accommodation hall! I live in Lilian Knowles House, and I have attended so many events hosted by the Halls Committee, such as a Lunar New Year party, Weekly Halls Chills events and karaoke nights. This has given me a set of friends and a community which I can always rely upon! Highly recommend going to that one event you think would be boring, who knows, maybe you'll find your new besties there.

Well, that is all from me. What else would you have wanted to know before coming to university in the UK?