Authored by Vijay (India), MSc Strategic Marketing
Relocating to London as an international student quickly highlights how costs such as accommodation, food, transportation, and tuition can add up. Moreover, the professional environment feels noticeably different, with alternative approaches to working, communicating, and appreciating creativity compared to my home country.
For me, part-time positions connected these two realms, aiding my financial management and comprehension of the UK market, especially regarding marketing and customer experience. My initial and preferred role was as a MORA Content Creator with Imperial’s central marketing team. Being compensated to generate content for a prestigious university felt unreal and positively influenced my year.
Becoming a MORA Content Creator
Collaborating with the MORA team was a fantasy, producing content viewed by over 700,000 individuals across Imperial’s social media platforms. It encompassed storytelling and sharing student experiences, learning institutional communication, and grasping the tone and authenticity that resonates with varied audiences.
This position offered unforeseen opportunities, such as interviewing prominent figures like Rishi Sunak and Akshata Murty. None of this would have materialized without agreeing to that initial chance. The MORA team is welcoming, supportive, and provides a creative atmosphere for experimentation. If you enjoy storytelling and wish to participate in exciting content projects, this is one of the finest part-time positions at Imperial.
Finding part-time opportunities
Numerous avenues exist for discovering part-time employment while studying at Imperial. I located mine through Imperial’s internal job boards on JobsLive, LinkedIn, and career fairs during Welcome Week. Customize your CV to align with the role you are applying for and exhibit enthusiasm. Imperial’s Careers Service can assist with CVs, mock interviews, and job searches. Most part-time employers prioritize reliability, proactivity, and approachability over mere experience.
Balancing work and study
Managing work alongside classes necessitates organization. I arranged shifts during lighter class loads. Keep in mind that your degree takes precedence, but a well-selected part-time position can enhance your studies. My marketing coursework became more relevant when I encountered those concepts in real-world roles.
Exploring different part-time jobs
Throughout my Master’s, I experimented with various roles such as server, event coordinator, barista, and bartender. Each position imparted unique lessons. Experience in hospitality taught me genuine customer service, patience, teamwork, and maintaining composure under pressure. These insights have remained with me beyond the café environment.
Financial independence and visa rules
From a financial perspective, part-time jobs were essential, covering rent, travel, and living costs, along with some savings. As an international student, I was permitted to work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during breaks, striking a balance between income and relaxation.
Adhering to visa regulations is vital, as surpassing work hours can impact your visa status. Imperial offers clear guidance, and it’s prudent to verify conditions before accepting any employment.
Final thoughts
My part-time journey at Imperial encompassed more than just earning money. It fostered confidence, imparted professionalism in a different culture, and connected me with a diverse array of individuals. Whether crafting coffee or developing digital campaigns, each role imparts invaluable lessons for the future.
If you’re beginning your Master’s and pondering how to handle finances while gaining practical experience, consider exploring part-time opportunities early on. The small “yes” you say today could open doors to experiences beyond your imagination.
To learn more about my experiences, read my Imperial story.