Authored by Vijay (India), MSc Strategic Marketing
Upon relocating to London as an international student, you swiftly recognize how costs like housing, food, transportation, and tuition fees can pile up. Moreover, the professional environment is markedly different, showcasing new approaches to work, communication, and the concept of creativity in comparison to your native country.
Part-time employment acted as a link for me between these different realms, assisting in financial management and gaining insight into the UK market, particularly from a marketing and customer experience view. My initial and most enjoyable position was as a MORA Content Creator within Imperial’s central marketing team. Earning a paycheck for developing content for a prestigious university felt surreal and positively influenced my year.
Becoming a MORA Content Creator
Collaborating with the MORA team was a dream come true, generating content viewed by over 700,000 individuals across Imperial’s social media platforms. It involved storytelling and showcasing the student journey, learning about institutional communication, and grasping the tone and authenticity that strikes a chord with various audiences.
This position unveiled unexpected opportunities, such as interviewing prominent figures like Rishi Sunak and Akshata Murty. None of this would have occurred if I hadn’t embraced that initial opportunity. The MORA team is supportive, motivating, and offers a creative environment for experimentation. If you have a passion for storytelling and wish to participate in exciting content projects, this is one of the top part-time positions at Imperial.
Finding part-time opportunities
There are numerous methods to discover part-time positions at Imperial. I found mine via Imperial’s internal job listings on JobsLive, LinkedIn, and career fairs during Welcome Week. Customize your CV for the position you’re pursuing and express enthusiasm. Imperial’s Careers Service can assist with CVs, mock interviews, and job searches. Most part-time employers look for reliability, initiative, and friendliness rather than just experience.
Balancing work and study
Juggling work and classes necessitates proper planning. I arranged my shifts when my class schedule was less demanding. Your degree should be the main focus, but a well-selected part-time job can enhance your studies. I found that my marketing coursework became even more relevant when applied to actual job experiences.
Exploring different part-time jobs
Throughout my Master’s program, I experimented with various jobs such as waiter, event coordinator, barista, and bartender. Each role imparted distinct lessons. Work in hospitality instilled genuine customer service skills, patience, teamwork, and the ability to stay collected under stress. These abilities have remained with me beyond the café setting.
Financial independence and visa rules
Financially, part-time positions were a lifesaver, enabling the covering of rent, transport, and living costs, along with some savings. As an international student, I was permitted to work up to 20 hours weekly during term time and full-time during breaks, balancing income with rest. Following visa regulations is essential, as surpassing work hours can impact visa status. Imperial provides clear guidance, so always verify conditions before accepting a position.
Final thoughts
My part-time experience at Imperial transcended mere financial gain. It nurtured confidence, taught professionalism in a new cultural context, and connected me with a diverse array of individuals. Whether crafting coffee or developing digital campaigns, each role imparts invaluable lessons for the future.
If you’re beginning your Master’s and contemplating how to manage your finances while gaining practical experience, seek out part-time positions early. A simple “yes” today could lead to experiences beyond your expectations.
To learn more about my experiences, read my Imperial story.