Authored by Vijay (India), MSc Strategic Marketing
Relocating to London as an international student, you’ll swiftly realize how costs can pile up, from accommodation and food to transportation and tuition fees. The professional atmosphere also appears noticeably different, with new methods of working, interacting, and understanding creativity compared to your home country.
Part-time positions became my bridge between these realms, assisting me in managing my finances and gaining insight into the UK market, particularly from a marketing and customer experience viewpoint. My initial and preferred position was as a MORA Content Creator within Imperial’s central marketing department. Being compensated to produce content for a prestigious university felt extraordinary and positively impacted my year.
Becoming a MORA Content Creator
Collaborating with the MORA team, generating content viewed by over 700,000 users across Imperial’s social media platforms, was truly a dream come true. It required storytelling and sharing the student experience, mastering institutional communication, and grasping the tone and authenticity that resonates with varied audiences.
This position presented unforeseen chances, such as interviewing notable personalities like Rishi Sunak and Akshata Murty. None of this would have transpired without my initial agreement to take that opportunity. The MORA team is welcoming, supportive, and offers a creative environment to explore ideas. If you’re passionate about storytelling and eager to work on engaging content projects, this is among the finest part-time roles at Imperial.
Finding part-time opportunities
Numerous avenues exist for locating part-time employment while attending Imperial. I discovered mine through Imperial’s internal job listings on JobsLive, LinkedIn, and career fairs during Welcome Week. Customize your CV for the position and exhibit enthusiasm. Imperial’s Careers Service can assist with CV enhancements, interview preparations, and job hunts. Employers prioritize dependability, initiative, and friendliness, not solely experience.
Balancing work and study
Juggling work and study necessitates careful planning. I accepted shifts when my class load was lighter. Your degree should take precedence, but a wisely selected part-time job can enhance your academic pursuits. My marketing coursework appeared significantly more relevant when linked to actual work experiences.
Exploring different part-time jobs
Throughout my Master’s, I experimented with various roles such as waiter, event coordinator, barista, and bartender. Each role imparted unique lessons. Work in hospitality taught me authentic customer service, patience, collaboration, and maintaining composure under pressure. These insights and abilities have continued beyond the café environment.
Financial independence and visa rules
From a financial standpoint, part-time roles were vital. I managed my rent, travel, and living costs and even managed to save a little. As an international student, I was permitted to work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during holidays, balancing income generation and relaxation.
Adhering to visa requirements is crucial, as exceeding work limits may impact your visa status. Imperial supplies clear advice, and it is prudent to verify conditions before accepting any employment.
Final thoughts
My part-time experience at Imperial was more than simply making money. It was about developing confidence, understanding professionalism in a new setting, and meeting a diverse range of individuals. Whether mixing coffee or crafting digital campaigns, each position delivers valuable insights for the future.
If you’re embarking on your Master’s and pondering how to handle finances while gaining real-world exposure and experience, start exploring part-time roles early on. A small “yes” today could lead to larger opportunities than you anticipate.
To discover more about my journey, read my Imperial story.