Authored by Vijay (India), MSc Strategic Marketing
Relocating to London as an international student swiftly highlights how costs can pile up, ranging from housing and food to transportation and tuition fees. Furthermore, the workplace culture feels notably different, featuring fresh approaches to working, communicating, and viewing creativity than what I was accustomed to back home.
For me, part-time positions served as a link between these two realms, assisting in financial management and offering insights into the UK market, particularly from a marketing and customer experience viewpoint. My initial and most cherished position was as a MORA Content Creator with Imperial’s central marketing division. Being compensated for generating content for a prestigious university felt surreal and positively influenced my year.
Joining as a MORA Content Creator
Collaborating with the MORA team was a dream come true, producing content viewed by over 700,000 individuals across Imperial’s social platforms. It entailed narrative crafting and sharing student experiences, gaining knowledge in institutional communication, and grasping the tone and authenticity that connect with varied audiences.
This position provided unforeseen opportunities, such as interviewing notable figures like Rishi Sunak and Akshata Murty. None of this would have occurred without embracing that initial chance. The MORA team is welcoming, supportive, and provides a creative environment for exploration. If you have a passion for storytelling and wish to partake in captivating content projects, this stands out as one of the top part-time roles at Imperial.
Locating part-time opportunities
There are numerous avenues for discovering part-time employment while enrolled at Imperial. I found mine via Imperial’s internal job listings on JobsLive, LinkedIn, and recruitment fairs during Welcome Week. The essential aspect is customizing your CV for the position and demonstrating enthusiasm. Imperial’s Careers Service can assist with CV crafting, mock interviews, and job hunting. Employers look for dependability, initiative, and approachability, not merely experience.
Maintaining work and studies
Juggling employment and classes necessitates organization. I arranged shifts when my academic load was lighter. Your studies are paramount, but a wisely selected part-time job can enhance your academic experience. My marketing assignments felt more relevant when applied to actual job scenarios.
Experimenting with various part-time roles
Throughout my Master’s program, I explored diverse roles such as waiter, event coordinator, barista, and bartender. Each position imparted something distinctive. Hospitality roles nurtured genuine customer service skills, patience, collaboration, and composure under stress. These abilities have accompanied me beyond the café setting.
Financial autonomy and visa guidelines
From a financial perspective, part-time roles were essential. I managed to pay rent, travel, and living costs while also saving a bit. As an international student, I was permitted to work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during breaks, balancing earning and relaxation.
It’s crucial to comply with visa stipulations, as exceeding work hours can impact your visa standing. Imperial offers clear instructions, so it’s prudent to check conditions before accepting positions.
Concluding thoughts
My part-time experience at Imperial went beyond just earning income. It fostered confidence, instilled professionalism in a new environment, and connected me with a variety of individuals. Whether making coffee or developing digital campaigns, every position provides valuable insights for the future.
If you’re embarking on your Master’s and contemplating managing finances while acquiring practical experience, begin exploring part-time positions early. A simple “yes” today could pave the way for unforeseen, impactful experiences.
To learn more about my experiences, read my Imperial story.