Authored by Vijay (India), MSc Strategic Marketing
Relocating to London as an international student swiftly exposes you to the rapid accumulation of expenses, including rent, groceries, transportation, and tuition fees. A further awareness comes with the unique professional culture, where work, communication, and creativity are viewed differently than in your home country.
Part-time positions served as a bridge between these two worlds for me, aiding in financial management and gaining insights into the UK market, particularly concerning marketing and customer experiences. My initial and favorite role was as a MORA Content Creator within Imperial’s central marketing team. Being compensated for content creation at a prestigious university felt surreal and significantly enhanced my year.
Becoming a MORA Content Creator
Collaborating with the MORA team to generate content viewed by over 700,000 individuals on Imperial’s social channels was truly a dream come true. It involved narrative crafting and sharing the student journey, gaining knowledge in institutional communication, and mastering tone and authenticity for varied audiences.
This position provided extraordinary opportunities, including interviews with notable personalities like Rishi Sunak and Akshata Murty. None of this would have transpired without my affirmative response to that initial chance. The MORA team is welcoming, supportive, and fosters creative exploration. If you enjoy storytelling and seek captivating content projects, this is one of the best part-time jobs at Imperial.
Finding part-time opportunities
Many avenues exist to secure part-time employment while attending Imperial. I discovered mine via Imperial’s internal job boards on JobsLive, LinkedIn, and networking events during Welcome Week. Customize your CV to fit the position and convey enthusiasm. Imperial’s Careers Service offers support with CV preparation, mock interviews, and job searches. Most employers value reliability, initiative, and friendliness above mere experience.
Balancing work and study
Managing work alongside studies necessitates careful planning. I arranged shifts when my course load was lighter. Prioritizing your degree is vital, yet a well-selected part-time job can enhance your academic experience. My marketing courses became more relevant when applied to real-world situations.
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 lessons. Working in hospitality taught me true customer service, patience, teamwork, and composure under pressure. These abilities have persisted beyond the café environment.
Financial independence and visa rules
On a financial level, part-time jobs proved to be lifesaving, covering rent, transportation, and living costs, while also permitting some savings. As an international student, I was allowed to work up to 20 hours a week during term and full-time during breaks, skillfully balancing income with relaxation.
Following visa regulations is essential, as exceeding allowable work hours can impact visa status. Imperial offers clear instructions, and it is prudent to verify conditions before accepting employment.
Final thoughts
Upon reflecting on my part-time experience at Imperial, it was about more than just earning an income. It helped cultivate confidence, fostered professionalism within a new cultural context, and connected me with a variety of individuals. Whether preparing coffee or developing digital campaigns, each role provides invaluable lessons for the future.
If you are beginning your Master’s and contemplating how to manage finances while gaining practical experience, consider exploring part-time positions early on. A small “yes” today might unlock experiences you never imagined.
To learn more about my experiences, read my Imperial story.