I did further maths, but unfortunately do not take the Mathematical Methods course that the Computer Science students take. From what I hear, further maths is not required, because they teach you basically from scratch. Students with further maths will probably have the advantage of having seen some material before, but you will be taught everything you need to know. You may just have to do a bit more work on your own if you don't understand something.
The step up from A-levels is more the work load steps up. The actual material is harder,cut that is combatted by more contact hours, better resources and better lecturers. Really, you have to learn to work on your own much more than you did at A-Level. You're not just studying to pass exams (like at A-Level), you actually need to understand new concepts. Your timetable will vary so the amount of work a day will be around 4 hours in the college. At home, you will have to do a few problem sheets and a bit of programming for a few more hours. Let's say you work around 7-8 hours a day. This still leaves time for socialising, looking after yourself etc. The step up is entirely manageable.
I did but it's not necessary. Imperial don't even ask for computer science knowledge before you apply so you don't need to read anything like that. However, if you have the time, it would help you greatly to start programming a tiny bit in Java (and start to look at Haskell) to get used to programming, you don't have to spend to much time on it. I didn't read anything and I don't think it has hindered me so far.
Yes, everyone that wants one has a social life
first week is all about socialising and you will find the time. Doing computing, you can expect to go out around twice a week, all around London (probably not with many other computing students). You can find cheap alcohol and drink in kitchens with friends. Sport is easily accessible, with the gym being a 1 minute walk from the South Ken campus. There are also many societies that you can find out about in first week.
Any specific questions, PM me.
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