Authored by Vijay (India), MSc Strategic Marketing
Relocating to London as an international student, the initial observation is how rapidly costs can pile up, from rent and food to travel and tuition fees. The subsequent realization is the marked contrast in professional culture. The approach people take to work, communicate, and view creativity is entirely unfamiliar compared to my home country.
For me, part-time employment bridged these two realms. It assisted me in managing my financial situation and comprehending the UK market, particularly from a marketing and customer experience viewpoint. My first and most enjoyable position was as a MORA Content Creator with Imperial’s central marketing department. It felt incredible to be compensated for creating content for one of the world’s top universities, and this experience had a significant impact on my entire year.
Becoming a MORA Content Creator
Contributing to the team and producing content viewed by over 700,000 individuals across Imperial’s social media platforms made collaborating with the MORA team a fantasy come true. It involved more than just filming or writing – it was about narrative building and sharing student experiences, learning how large organizations communicate, and grasping the tone and authenticity that connect with varied audiences.
This position provided me with opportunities I never envisaged as a student, such as interviewing prominent figures like Rishi Sunak and Akshata Murty. None of this would have materialized had I not accepted that initial small opportunity. The MORA team is welcoming, supportive, and offers you the creative freedom to explore. If you are passionate about storytelling and wish to engage in captivating content projects, I think this is among the best part-time opportunities at Imperial.
Discovering part-time opportunities
Numerous methods exist to secure part-time employment while studying at Imperial. I found mine via Imperial’s internal job portals on JobsLive, LinkedIn, and career fairs during Welcome Week. The key is to customize your CV for the specific position you’re targeting and display enthusiasm. Imperial’s Careers Service can assist you in refining your CV, practicing interviews, and generally aiding you in your job search. Also, remember that most part-time employers aren’t solely interested in experience, they also seek individuals who are dependable, proactive, and personable.
Juggling work and study
Successfully balancing work and classes requires careful planning. I consistently ensured to work shifts only when my class commitments were lighter that week. Keep in mind that your degree is the top priority, but a judiciously chosen part-time job can enhance your studies rather than detract from them. My marketing assignments, for example, felt more significant when I could observe how those concepts were applied in actual jobs.
Trying out various part-time jobs
During my Master’s program, I explored various positions like waiter, event organizer, barista, and even bartender. Each job imparted something distinct. Working in hospitality provided insights into genuine customer service, teaching me patience, teamwork, and how to remain calm amidst chaos. Those lessons and skills have remained with me long after leaving the café.
Financial autonomy and visa regulations
From a financial standpoint, my part-time positions were invaluable. I was able to cover my rent, transportation, and living expenses through my work and even managed to save a little. As an international student, I was allowed to work 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during holidays, which was adequate to maintain a balance between income and rest.
It’s vital to adhere strictly to your visa rules, as going over the work hours limit can impact your visa status. Imperial offers clear guidelines regarding this, and it’s always prudent to verify your conditions before accepting any job.
Concluding thoughts
Reflecting on my part-time experience at Imperial, it was more than a mere way to earn money. It was about building confidence, acquiring professionalism in a new culture, and connecting with individuals from diverse backgrounds. Whether you’re making coffee or crafting digital campaigns, every job imparts something beneficial for the future.
If you are entering your Master’s program and wondering how to manage finances while gaining practical exposure and experience, I highly suggest considering part-time positions early on. You never know, the modest “yes”