Authored by Vijay (India), MSc Strategic Marketing
Relocating to London as an international student quickly makes clear how costs can pile up, from housing and food to transport and education fees. Another insight is the unique professional atmosphere, where work, interactions, and creativity are viewed differently compared to my home country.
Part-time positions connected these two worlds for me, assisting in financial oversight and offering perspectives on the UK market, especially from a marketing and customer experience angle. My initial and favored role was as a MORA Content Creator within Imperial’s main marketing team. Earning money to produce content for a prestigious university felt surreal and positively influenced my year.
Becoming a MORA Content Creator
Collaborating with the MORA team to generate content for over 700,000 individuals on Imperial’s social media platforms was a fantasy realized. It entailed crafting narratives and showcasing the student experience, gaining knowledge of institutional communication, and grasping the tone and authenticity that appeal to varied audiences.
This position provided unforeseen chances, such as interviewing notable personalities like Rishi Sunak and Akshata Murty. These moments might not have occurred had I not embraced that first opportunity. The MORA team is encouraging and fosters innovation. If you enjoy storytelling and participating in captivating content projects, this stands as one of the finest part-time positions at Imperial.
Finding part-time opportunities
There are numerous avenues to discover part-time work at Imperial. I utilized Imperial’s internal job boards on JobsLive, LinkedIn, and attended career fairs during Welcome Week. Customize your CV for the position and express enthusiasm. Imperial’s Careers Service can help with CV enhancements, mock interviews, and job hunts. Employers look for dependability, initiative, and friendliness besides experience.
Balancing work and study
Synchronizing work and academic responsibilities calls for careful planning. I arranged shifts when my course load was lighter. Your degree should take precedence, but a well-selected part-time job can enrich your studies. My marketing coursework felt more significant when applied in actual jobs.
Exploring different part-time jobs
Throughout my Master’s, I experienced several roles like waiter, event coordinator, barista, and bartender. Each role imparted distinct lessons. Hospitality work instilled genuine customer service, patience, teamwork, and composure under stress. These skills have persisted well beyond the café.
Financial independence and visa rules
Financially, part-time jobs were essential. I managed to cover rent, transport, and living costs while saving some money. As an international student, I was allowed to work up to 20 hours per week during academic terms and full-time during breaks, striking a balance between income and rest.
Following visa regulations is crucial, as exceeding working hours can jeopardize visa status. Imperial offers clear instructions, and it’s prudent to confirm conditions prior to accepting employment.
Final thoughts
My part-time journey at Imperial encompassed much more than monetary gain. It fostered confidence, instructed professionalism in a foreign culture, and connected me with a wide array of individuals. Whether brewing beverages or crafting digital campaigns, every role provides invaluable lessons for the future.
If you’re beginning your Master’s and contemplating managing finances while acquiring real-world insights, consider exploring part-time positions early. A small “yes” today may lead to unexpectedly significant opportunities.
To discover more about my experiences, read my Imperial story.