By Vijay (India), MSc Strategic Marketing
Upon my arrival in London as an international student, I quickly realized how swiftly expenses can pile up, from housing and food to transit and tuition fees. The next realization was the significant differences in professional culture where work, communication, and creativity are viewed through a different lens than in my home country.
Part-time positions connected these two aspects for me. They aided in managing my budget while also giving me insights into the UK marketplace, particularly in terms of marketing and customer experience. My first and most cherished position was as a MORA Content Creator with Imperial’s central marketing team. Being compensated to generate content for a prestigious university felt surreal and positively influenced my year.
Becoming a MORA Content Creator
Helping the team and crafting content for over 700,000 followers across Imperial’s social media platforms made working with the MORA team a fantasy come true. This role focused on storytelling, sharing student experiences, learning about institutional communication, and grasping the tone and authenticity that appeal to varied audiences.
This position presented unexpected chances, such as interviewing noted individuals like Rishi Sunak and Akshata Murty. None of this would have been possible without accepting that first opportunity. The MORA team is friendly, supportive, and offers a creative environment for experimentation. If you enjoy storytelling and wish to participate in engaging content projects, this is among the top part-time positions at Imperial.
Finding part-time opportunities
There are numerous methods to locate part-time employment while studying at Imperial. I discovered mine through Imperial’s internal job listings on JobsLive, LinkedIn, and career fairs during Welcome Week. The main point is to customize your CV for the specific position you are applying for and display enthusiasm. Imperial’s Careers Service offers support with CVs, mock interviews, and job searches. Most part-time employers prioritize reliability, initiative, and friendliness over mere experience.
Balancing work and study
Juggling work and lectures necessitates organization. I only accepted shifts when my class timetable was less demanding. Keep in mind that your degree should be the priority, though a well-chosen part-time job can enhance your academic journey. My marketing studies felt more relevant when applied to actual work situations.
Exploring different part-time jobs
During my Master’s program, I explored various roles, including waiter, event manager, barista, and bartender. Each job imparted unique lessons. My hospitality experience taught me genuine customer service, patience, teamwork, and maintaining composure under pressure. These insights have remained with me beyond my time behind the café counter.
Financial independence and visa rules
From a financial perspective, part-time roles were essential. I covered my rent, travel, and living expenses and even managed to save a little. As an international student, I was allowed to work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during breaks, aligning income with relaxation.
It’s vital to adhere to visa regulations strictly, as exceeding work limits could impact your visa status. Imperial offers clear guidance, and it’s prudent to verify conditions before accepting any job.
Final thoughts
Looking back on my part-time experience at Imperial, it was more than just earning an income. It was a journey of building confidence, understanding professionalism in a new culture, and connecting with a diverse range of individuals. Whether it was making coffee or developing digital campaigns, every role imparts valuable lessons for the future.
If you’re beginning your Master’s and pondering how to handle finances while gaining practical experience, consider part-time positions early on. The small “yes” you offer today could lead to much greater opportunities.
To discover more about my experiences, read my Imperial story.