Authored by Vijay (India), MSc Strategic Marketing
Arriving in London as an international student, you swiftly observe how costs such as rent, groceries, transport, and tuition add up. The professional atmosphere also seems notably different, featuring new methods of working, communicating, and viewing creativity.
For me, part-time employment connected these realms, enabling me to manage my finances and gain insights into the UK market from a marketing and customer experience standpoint. My initial and cherished position was as a MORA Content Creator with Imperial’s main marketing team. Getting paid to generate content for a prestigious university felt surreal and positively influenced my year.
Becoming a MORA Content Creator
Collaborating with the MORA team, crafting content for more than 700,000 followers on Imperial’s social media platforms, was a dream come true. It entailed storytelling and showcasing the student experience, mastering institutional communication, and grasping the tone and authenticity that resonates with various audiences.
This position provided unforeseen prospects, such as interviewing notable figures like Rishi Sunak and Akshata Murty. These opportunities arose from embracing a small chance. The MORA team is friendly, supportive, and encourages creative exploration. If you have a passion for storytelling and wish to partake in intriguing content projects, this is one of the finest part-time positions at Imperial.
Finding part-time opportunities
There are numerous methods to discover part-time employment while studying at Imperial. I located mine through Imperial’s internal job listings on JobsLive, LinkedIn, and career fairs during Welcome Week. Customize your CV for the specific role and express enthusiasm. Imperial’s Careers Service can assist with your CV, mock interviews, and job hunt. Employers look for dependability, initiative, and a friendly demeanor, not exclusively experience.
Balancing work and study
Finding equilibrium between work and study necessitates organization. I arranged shifts when my class load was lighter. Your degree should be the main focus, but a strategically selected part-time job can enhance your studies. My marketing coursework felt significantly more relevant when put into practice in real-world roles.
Exploring different part-time jobs
Throughout my Master’s, I explored various positions such as waiter, event manager, barista, and bartender. Each role imparted unique lessons. Work in hospitality taught me genuine customer service, patience, teamwork, and the ability to maintain composure under pressure. These insights and skills have remained with me beyond the café environment.
Financial independence and visa rules
Part-time positions were crucial financially, covering rent, travel, and living costs, along with some savings. As an international student, I was permitted to work up to 20 hours weekly during terms and full-time during breaks, achieving a balance between earnings and rest. Compliance with visa regulations is essential, as overstepping work hours can impact visa status. Imperial offers clear guidance, and it is prudent to verify conditions before accepting any position.
Final thoughts
My part-time experience at Imperial transcended mere financial gain. It fostered confidence, taught professionalism within a new culture, and connected me with a diverse array of individuals. Whether brewing coffee or designing digital campaigns, every role provides valuable lessons for the future.
If you’re embarking on your Master’s and pondering how to handle finances while gaining practical experience, begin exploring part-time opportunities early. A small “yes” today could lead to significantly greater experiences.
To learn more about my experiences, read my Imperial story.