When you reach London as an overseas student, the first aspect you may observe is how expenses can pile up rapidly, ranging from accommodation and groceries to transport and tuition fees. The second observation is the unique professional culture, marked by differences in work ethics, communication styles, and creativity compared to your home country.
For me, part-time employment served as a bridge between these two environments. It aided me in managing my finances and gaining insights into the UK market, particularly from marketing and customer experience angles. My initial and favored position was as a MORA Content Creator within Imperial’s central marketing team. Being compensated to develop content for a prestigious university was extraordinary and positively influenced my year.
Becoming a MORA Content Creator
Contributing to the team and producing content seen by over 700,000 individuals on Imperial’s social media platforms made my experience with MORA a true aspiration. It included storytelling and sharing the student journey, honing institutional communication skills, and grasping tone and authenticity for varied audiences.
This role opened doors I had never anticipated, such as interviewing well-known personalities like Rishi Sunak and Akshata Murty. None of these experiences would have occurred without my decision to accept that initial opportunity. The MORA team is welcoming, supportive, and allows room for creativity. If you have a passion for storytelling and wish to engage in compelling content projects, this is among the finest part-time positions at Imperial.
Finding part-time opportunities
There are numerous avenues to discover part-time employment while studying at Imperial. I found mine through Imperial’s internal job boards on JobsLive, LinkedIn, and career fairs held during Welcome Week. The essential aspect is to customize your CV for the specific role you are targeting and to express genuine enthusiasm. Imperial’s Careers Service can assist with your CV, interview preparation, and job hunting. Keep in mind that most part-time employers value reliability, initiative, and friendliness, not just prior experience.
Balancing work and study
Managing work alongside classes necessitates careful planning. I scheduled shifts only when my class commitments were lighter. Your degree should be your top priority, but a strategically selected part-time job can enrich your studies. My marketing coursework seemed more relevant when connected to real-world applications.
Exploring different part-time jobs
Throughout my Master’s program, I engaged in various roles such as waiter, event manager, barista, and bartender. Each job imparted distinct skills. Working in hospitality taught me genuine customer service, patience, teamwork, and maintaining composure under pressure. These insights and abilities have continued to benefit me long after leaving the café.
Financial independence and visa rules
From a financial perspective, part-time jobs were a godsend. I managed to cover rent, transportation, and living costs, and even set aside some savings. As an international student, I was permitted to work up to 20 hours a week during term and full-time during breaks, allowing a balance of income and downtime.
It is vital to adhere strictly to visa regulations, as surpassing work limits can impact your visa status. Imperial provides clear guidelines, and it is prudent to verify the conditions before accepting any job offer.
Final thoughts
Looking back on my part-time experience at Imperial, it was more than just a means of earning money. It was about cultivating confidence, learning professionalism in a different culture, and connecting with a diverse array of individuals. Whether making coffee or designing digital campaigns, every position imparts valuable lessons for the future.
If you’re about to embark on your Master’s and are contemplating how to handle your finances while gaining practical exposure, I recommend investigating part-time opportunities early on. The small “yes” you utter today could lead to experiences far grander than you can envision.
To learn more about my experiences, read my Imperial story.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under Careers, Part-time job, postgraduate student life
Tagged part-time work, postgraduate work, student jobs, working as a student, working as an international student