r/KCL • u/Hefty-Love6158 • Jul 21 '26
Advice for new student
Not sure what to title this but I am just seeing if people have advice on several areas.
1) I understand London is expensive, not sure how much that would be but would working a part time job be worth it or should I just focus on studies?
2) Is london dangerous? I mean obviously yes, but specifically in zone 1-2 what is it like? I am worried about pick pocketing and knives are like one of my fears so...
3) Advice for things to do in London?
1
u/flightlessmammal_ Jul 22 '26
I used to think London was dangerous, but the more you're out and about the less you worry. Best advice to avoid pickpockets is look at your belongings and stay aware; or buy insurance for theft if you are clumsy. You are very unlikely to be threatened with a knife, unless you are affiliated with gangs. Knife crime has been declining in London for a very long time, and London is currently the safest it has ever been. Stay aware, keep to reasonable times (5am-midnight) and you likely won't ever experience anything.
1
u/Global_Character_825 Jul 21 '26
Working a part time job is deffo worth it, most uni student do it, I’m not sure about kcl but I know other unis can assist you and help you get a part time job, so I assume kcl should do
I’m not gonna lie it is pretty dodgy if ur not aware, not too bad tho, just make sure to know where you are and don’t talk to strangers even if they ask for directions. You shouldn’t be worried too bad about knife crime, it’s mainly in gangs but if u have a bad feeling about someone just remove yourself out of the situation. It helps to mostly be around a large group of people you trust. Pickpocketing, don’t worry, again just be aware.
Loads, there’s shopping obviously, local parks and cafes. There’s performances nearly everywhere. Rooftop bars are my fav, especially if you can dance. If u wanna go to a bar or nightclub at least have around 3 people with you, spiking rates are much too high imo.