Authored by Vijay (India), MSc Strategic Marketing
Transitioning to London as an international student quickly highlights how costs can add up, from housing and food to transportation and tuition fees. Moreover, the professional environment feels significantly different, with new approaches to working, communicating, and understanding creativity in comparison to my home country.
Part-time jobs acted as a link between these different worlds for me, aiding in financial management and providing insights into the UK market, particularly from the viewpoints of marketing and customer experience. My initial and preferred position was as a MORA Content Creator with Imperial’s central marketing team. The experience of being compensated to generate content for a prestigious university was surreal and significantly influenced my year.
Becoming a MORA Content Creator
Collaborating with the MORA team was a fantasy, crafting content viewed by over 700,000 individuals across Imperial’s social media platforms. It involved not merely videography or writing but also storytelling, showcasing the student experience, acquiring institutional communication skills, and grasping the tone and authenticity that resonate with various audiences.
This position opened up unforeseen opportunities, such as interviewing prominent figures like Rishi Sunak and Akshata Murty. These encounters would not have been possible without seizing that original opportunity. The MORA team is supportive, inspiring, and offers a creative environment to innovate. If you enjoy storytelling and wish to engage in intriguing content projects, this is among the top part-time positions at Imperial.
Discovering part-time opportunities
There are numerous methods to secure part-time employment while studying at Imperial. I located mine via Imperial’s internal job platforms on JobsLive, LinkedIn, and career fairs during Welcome Week. Customize your CV to align with the position you’re targeting and demonstrate enthusiasm. Imperial’s Careers Service can assist with CV refinement, mock interviews, and job hunting. Most part-time employers value reliability, initiative, and friendliness over mere experience.
Managing work and study
Successfully balancing work and classes necessitates planning. I accepted shifts only when my class timetable was less demanding. Keep in mind that your degree comes first, but a well-suited part-time job can enhance your academic experience. My marketing coursework felt significantly more relevant when applied to actual job settings.
Exploring various part-time jobs
Throughout my Master’s program, I experimented with different jobs such as a waiter, event manager, barista, and bartender. Each role imparted valuable lessons. My experience in hospitality taught me authentic customer service, patience, teamwork, and how to maintain composure in hectic situations. These skills have remained with me beyond the café setting.
Financial independence and visa regulations
From a financial standpoint, part-time jobs were essential, covering rent, travel, and living expenses, while allowing for some savings. International students are permitted to work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during holidays, balancing earnings and downtime. It is crucial to follow visa regulations, as exceeding work limits can impact visa status. Imperial offers clear guidance, so always verify conditions before accepting a position.
Concluding thoughts
My part-time experience at Imperial transcended merely earning money. It fostered confidence, taught professionalism in a new cultural context, and connected me with a diverse range of individuals. Whether preparing coffee or crafting digital campaigns, every role provides invaluable lessons for the future.
If you’re about to begin your Master’s and contemplating how to handle finances while acquiring real-world exposure and experience, consider exploring part-time roles early on. A small “yes” today could open doors to experiences beyond your wildest dreams.
To learn more about my experiences, read my Imperial narrative.