Written by Vijay (India), MSc Strategic Marketing
When I arrived in London as an international student, the first thing I noticed was how rapidly costs could pile up, from housing and food to transportation and tuition fees. The next realization was regarding the unique professional environment, where work, interaction, and innovation are viewed differently compared to my home country.
Part-time employment acted as a bridge connecting these two realms for me, assisting in financial oversight while providing insights into the UK market, particularly from a marketing and consumer experience standpoint. My first and most treasured position was as a MORA Content Creator within Imperial’s primary marketing team. Getting paid to produce content for a prestigious university felt surreal and significantly enriched my year.
Becoming a MORA Content Creator
Collaborating with the MORA team was a dream come true, as I supported them in crafting content for over 700,000 followers on Imperial’s social media platforms. This role exceeded mere filming or writing; it revolved around storytelling, sharing the student journey, mastering institutional communication, and comprehending the tone and authenticity that resonates with varied audiences.
This position opened up amazing possibilities, including opportunities to interview prominent figures like Rishi Sunak and Akshata Murty. None of this would have transpired without taking that first chance. The MORA team is welcoming, supportive, and encourages creative exploration. If you have a passion for storytelling and wish to partake in engaging content projects, this is among the finest part-time positions at Imperial.
Finding part-time opportunities
Numerous avenues exist to discover part-time employment while enrolled at Imperial. I found my position through Imperial’s internal job board on JobsLive, LinkedIn, and career fairs during Welcome Week. The secret lies in customizing your CV for the job you’re targeting and demonstrating enthusiasm. Imperial’s Careers Service can help with CV crafting, mock interviews, and job hunts. Keep in mind, most part-time employers prioritize reliability, initiative, and friendliness over mere experience.
Balancing work and study
Achieving a balance between work and study necessitates organization. I scheduled my shifts during weeks with lighter coursework. Your studies should be your main focus, yet a well-selected part-time job can enhance your academic experience. My marketing classes felt much more relevant when I could see those theories at play in actual jobs.
Exploring different part-time jobs
Throughout my Master’s program, I explored various roles such as waiter, event manager, barista, and bartender. Every position imparted different lessons. Working in hospitality provided real customer service experience, patience, teamwork, and the ability to remain composed under stress. These abilities have extended well beyond the café environment.
Financial independence and visa rules
Financially, part-time jobs were crucial, helping to cover rent, transportation, and living costs while allowing for some savings. As an international student, I was entitled to work up to 20 hours a week during term time and full-time during breaks, creating a balance between income and downtime. Compliance with visa regulations is vital, as exceeding work hours can jeopardize visa status. Imperial offers clear guidance on this matter, and it’s prudent to confirm your conditions before accepting roles.
Final thoughts
Looking back on my part-time experiences at Imperial, it was not only about earning income. It fostered confidence, imparted professionalism within a new culture, and linked me with a diverse array of individuals. Whether pouring coffee or crafting digital campaigns, every role has provided invaluable lessons for the future.
If you’re commencing your Master’s and pondering how to manage finances while gaining practical exposure, I encourage you to seek part-time positions early on. A small “yes” today might lead to experiences beyond your wildest dreams.
To delve deeper into my experiences, read my Imperial story.