Written by Vijay (India), MSc Strategic Marketing
Upon arriving in London as an international student, the first insight often pertains to how swiftly costs pile up, encompassing rent, groceries, travel, and tuition fees. The subsequent realization refers to the unique professional culture, wherein work, communication, and creativity are interpreted differently compared to one’s home country.
For me, part-time roles acted as a connection between these spheres, assisting in financial oversight and offering an understanding of the UK market, especially from a marketing and customer experience viewpoint. My inaugural and most treasured position was as a MORA Content Creator within Imperial’s central marketing division. Getting paid to produce content for a prestigious university felt surreal and positively shaped my year.
Becoming a MORA Content Creator
Collaborating with the MORA team to generate content viewed by over 700,000 individuals across Imperial’s social media platforms was a dream come true. It involved crafting narratives and portraying the student experience, learning institutional communication, and grasping the tone and authenticity that resonate with varied audiences.
This position presented unexpected chances, such as interviewing notable figures like Rishi Sunak and Akshata Murty. Such experiences would not have been feasible without seizing that initial opportunity. The MORA team is encouraging, supportive, and nurtures creative experimentation. For those who have a passion for storytelling and are eager to engage in captivating content projects, this is among the best part-time positions at Imperial.
Finding part-time opportunities
Countless avenues exist for locating part-time employment while enrolled at Imperial. I discovered mine via Imperial’s internal job boards on JobsLive, LinkedIn, and through career fairs during Welcome Week. The essential tip is to customize your CV for each role and exhibit genuine enthusiasm. Imperial’s Careers Service is available to assist with CV crafting, interview practice, and job hunting. Employers look not just for experience but also for dependability, initiative, and friendliness.
Balancing work and study
Successfully balancing work and academic pursuits necessitates planning. I arranged my shifts during weeks with lighter course loads. While your degree takes precedence, a well-selected part-time job can enhance your studies. My marketing coursework became more significant when applied to real-world scenarios.
Exploring different part-time jobs
Throughout my Master’s program, I ventured into various positions such as waiter, event manager, barista, and bartender. Each role imparted distinct lessons. Experiences in hospitality provided genuine customer service skills, patience, teamwork, and composure in high-pressure situations. These abilities continue to hold value beyond the café environment.
Financial independence and visa rules
Financially, part-time jobs were crucial, aiding in covering rent, travel, and living expenses, while still allowing for some savings. International students are permitted to work up to 20 hours a week during term time and full-time during holidays, managing both income and downtime. Compliance with visa regulations is vital, as exceeding work limits can jeopardize visa status. Imperial offers clear direction on this matter, and it’s prudent to confirm conditions prior to accepting positions.
Final thoughts
Looking back on my part-time experience at Imperial, it became more than just financial gain. It fostered confidence, imparted a sense of professionalism in a new cultural context, and connected me with a wide range of individuals. Be it brewing coffee or developing digital campaigns, each role provides invaluable lessons for the future.
If you’re beginning your Master’s and contemplating managing finances while acquiring practical experience, I strongly suggest looking into part-time positions early. A simple “yes” today could unlock far richer experiences than you can envision.
To delve deeper into my experiences, read my Imperial story.