Written by Vijay (India), MSc Strategic Marketing
Upon arriving in London as an international student, the first observation is how swiftly costs add up, from housing and food to transportation and tuition fees. The subsequent insight is the unique work culture, where professional interaction, communication, and creativity are viewed quite differently than in one’s home country.
Part-time work connected these two realms for me, helping with financial responsibility and offering perspectives on the UK market, particularly regarding marketing and customer experience. My initial and most treasured position was as a MORA Content Creator within Imperial’s central marketing team. Earning money to produce content for a prestigious university felt surreal and had a positive impact on my year.
Becoming a MORA Content Creator
Collaborating with the MORA team was a fantasy, crafting content for an audience of over 700,000 on Imperial’s social media platforms. It involved storytelling, documenting student experiences, mastering institutional communication, and grasping tones and authenticity that resonate with varied audiences.
This position provided extraordinary opportunities, such as interviewing notable figures like Rishi Sunak and Akshata Murty. These encounters would not have been possible without embracing that first role. The MORA team is nurturing, supportive, and offers a creative environment for innovation. For those passionate about storytelling and engaging in captivating content projects, this is one of the finest part-time jobs at Imperial.
Finding part-time opportunities
There are many avenues to discover part-time employment while studying at Imperial. I found my position through Imperial’s internal job platforms like JobsLive, LinkedIn, and career fairs during Welcome Week. The essential strategy is customizing your CV for the specific role and demonstrating enthusiasm. Imperial’s Careers Service helps with CV preparation, mock interviews, and job hunting. Most part-time employers look for dependability, initiative, and friendliness, not solely experience.
Balancing work and study
Maintaining a balance between work and study necessitates organization. I arranged my shifts during weeks with lighter coursework. Keep in mind, your studies should take precedence, but a well-selected part-time position can enhance your academic experience. My marketing course felt significantly more relevant when applied to real-world scenarios.
Exploring different part-time jobs
Throughout my Master’s program, I explored various roles, including server, event coordinator, barista, and bartender. Each position imparted distinctive lessons. The hospitality sector taught essential customer service skills, patience, teamwork, and remaining composed under pressure. These competences remain valuable well beyond the café environment.
Financial independence and visa rules
From a financial standpoint, part-time jobs were essential, helping to cover rent, travel, and living costs, with a bit set aside for savings. International students are allowed to work a maximum of 20 hours per week during the academic term and full-time during breaks, maintaining a balance between earning and resting. It’s crucial to comply with visa regulations, as exceeding allowed work hours can impact visa status. Imperial offers clear directives, and it is prudent to confirm conditions before taking on jobs.
Final thoughts
Looking back on my part-time experiences at Imperial, it was more than just earning income. It fostered confidence, taught professionalism within a new environment, and connected me with a wide array of individuals. Whether preparing coffee or developing digital campaigns, each position provided invaluable lessons for my future.
If you are beginning your Master’s and contemplating managing finances while gaining practical experience, consider exploring part-time opportunities early on. A small “yes” today might open the doors to experiences beyond your wildest dreams.
For more about my experiences, read my Imperial story.