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City St George's International Students – Tips, Advice & Support Thread 💗💗

✨💗 Welcome to the City St George’s International Students Tips, Advice & Support Thread! 💗✨

Hi everyone! Are you an international student who’s coming to, or interested in, City St George’s, University of London? If so, this thread is the perfect place for you!

My name is Jenna, and I am a current international student at City! Moving to a new country can be daunting, but my goal is to help make that transition as smooth as possible for you. I've created this thread for you to ask questions, receive important tips, and find some support before you arrive in London.

💬 Why don't we start off with a few discussion questions?
🌟 What sparked your interest in studying in London?
🌟 What are you most excited about for university life in the UK?
🌟 Do you have any worries or questions about moving to London?
🌟 What course are you planning to study at City St George’s?

I look forward to chatting with you all, and I can't wait for you to embark on this exciting journey! 😊

Best,
Jenna
Official City Rep

Reply 1

✨🚝 London's Transportation System 🚝✨

Hi there! Are you new to London, or looking for tips on how to get around the big city? If so, I am here to help!
On this weeks International Post, I will be sharing information on London's Transportation System.

London has one of the largest public transport networks in the world. Transport for London (TFL) has tubes, trains, buses and sometimes trams throughout the city.

Buses are the cheapest transport method and have a single fare no matter how long you are on the bus for. If you are changing buses within an hour, you can travel on multiple buses for the fare of one journey, so this is recommended if you want to travel further but not spend as much.

💲Payment
🌟 Greater London is split into Zones 1-6, and there are increased fares depending on
how far you travel/what zone you are travelling to and from.

🌟 You can use contactless payment, or paper tickets, however pay-as-you-go fares are usually cheaper.

🌟 An Oyster card is the top-up payment card most people use when taking public
transport in London. You are able to get a Student Oyster Card through City to receive discounted travel on all TFL
services. You can apply for a Student Oyster Card Here!

🌟 A 16 - 25 Railcard is also a great option if you take the train/tube a lot. This card costs £35 a year, and saves you 1/3 off rail travel. It is eligible for anyone between age 16-25 or mature students. You can link your railcard to your oyster card by visiting a London Underground station, Oyster Ticket Shop, or Visitor Centre to have the discount added by a member of staff. Find more information about a 16 - 25 Railcard Here!

📱Useful Apps
There are many apps that can help you get around London:

Citymapper, Google Maps, Apple Maps

The Official TFL Go App

Trainline (this is for booking trains)

Lime, Santander, Forrest (These are for e-bikes)


🚝🚶Tips for Using the Tube

1.

Tap in at the station

2.

Use the stations maps to find the right platform

3.

Board the train and mind the gap

4.

Listen to the automated messages to know your stop

5.

After exiting the train, make sure to tap out

6.

Follow green arrow to exit

‼️Keep your belongings close to you when travelling around London. I recommend keeping your phone away when you are in public‼️

Overall, I hope I was able to provide some useful information about transporting around London! Please let me know if you have any questions, or information you would like to add!

Best,
Jenna
Official City and Urdang Rep
(edited 6 months ago)

Reply 2

How to Manage Homesickness🏠️✈️

Moving away from home is exciting, but can also feel really scary. The truth is, feeling homesick is completely normal! It doesn't just affect international students, but anyone who's adjusting to a new place.

The good news is, there are ways to make the transition easier. So, I thought I would share my top tips to managing homesickness:

1.

Don't push the feeling away
Homesickness is a natural part of moving. Missing your old routines and home is a sign of how much they mattered to you, so it is okay to embrace the emotions!

2.

Stay connected (but set limits)
Stay in touch with your family and friends from back home, but also make sure to make time for new friendships and experiences

3.

Make your new space feel like home
Bring personal items like photos and decorations to your new home to help create a familiar and welcoming environment

4.

Build a new routine
Creating even small routines like a morning walk, or cafe visit can help give you stability in your new environment

5.

Explore new hobbies and activities
Not only will this keep you busy, but it is also a great way to meet new people and discover new passions you didn't know about!

These are just a few of many tactics. Remember, feeling homesick is normal, and a huge part of moving. Embrace the feeling ❤️

Best,
Jenna
Official City Rep

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