Written by Vijay (India), MSc Strategic Marketing
As you enter London as an international student, it quickly becomes apparent how costs like rent, food, transportation, and tuition can pile up swiftly. Moreover, the workplace culture seems significantly different, introducing new approaches to work, communication, and creativity compared to your home country.
For me, part-time employment acted as a link between these two realms, aiding me in financial management while providing insights into the UK market, especially regarding marketing and customer experience. My first and most valued position was as a MORA Content Creator within Imperial’s central marketing team. The opportunity to create content for a prestigious university was surreal and had a wonderfully positive impact on my entire year.
Becoming a MORA Content Creator
Collaborating with the MORA team was a dream come true, as I assisted the team and crafted content seen by over 700,000 individuals across Imperial’s social media platforms. It went beyond simple filming or writing; it was centered on storytelling, sharing the student journey, mastering institutional communication, and grasping the tone and authenticity that engage various audiences.
This role provided unforeseen opportunities, such as interviewing notable figures like Rishi Sunak and Akshata Murty. These moments wouldn’t have materialized if I hadn’t seized that initial opportunity. The MORA team is supportive, uplifting, and offers a creative environment for experimentation. For those who enjoy storytelling and wish to take part in captivating content projects, this is one of the finest part-time positions at Imperial.
Finding part-time opportunities
There are countless avenues to discover part-time employment while enrolled at Imperial. I located mine via Imperial’s internal job boards on JobsLive, LinkedIn, and job fairs during Welcome Week. Customize your CV for the position you’re applying for and express genuine enthusiasm. Imperial’s Careers Service can help with CV development, interview practice, and job hunting. Most part-time employers value dependability, initiative, and amiability, not solely experience.
Balancing work and study
Effectively managing work and classes requires careful planning. I arranged shifts during times when my academic load was lighter. Your studies should be the primary focus, but a wisely chosen part-time position can enhance your academic experience. My marketing courses felt significantly more relevant when I witnessed those principles in action through real jobs.
Exploring different part-time jobs
Throughout my Master’s program, I experimented with various roles such as waiter, event manager, barista, and bartender. Each position imparted distinct learning experiences. Hospitality roles taught me genuine customer service, patience, teamwork, and how to maintain composure under duress. These lessons and skills accompany me beyond the café setting.
Financial independence and visa rules
From a financial standpoint, part-time jobs were invaluable, covering rent, travel, and living expenses, while allowing for a bit of savings. As an international student, I was permitted to work up to 20 hours weekly during term time and full-time during holidays, enabling a balance between income and relaxation. It’s vital to comply with visa regulations, as exceeding work hours could influence your visa status. Imperial offers straightforward guidance, and it’s prudent to verify conditions prior to accepting employment.
Final thoughts
Looking back on my part-time experience at Imperial, it represented more than just earning an income. It was about cultivating confidence, understanding professionalism in a new setting, and connecting with a variety of individuals. Whether pouring coffee or developing digital campaigns, each role delivers essential lessons for the future.
If you’re embarking on your Master’s and pondering how to balance finances while gaining real-world exposure and experience, I encourage you to consider part-time roles early on. A small “yes” today could unlock far greater opportunities than you ever anticipated.
To discover more about my experiences, read my Imperial story.