Authored by Vijay (India), MSc Strategic Marketing
Upon arriving in London as an international student, you will swiftly observe that costs can escalate quickly, ranging from housing and food to transportation and tuition fees. Another aspect to notice is the unique professional environment, where work, interaction, and creativity are viewed differently compared to your home country.
Part-time employment provided a link between these two realms for me, assisting in financial management and gaining 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 the central marketing team at Imperial. Being compensated to produce content for a top-tier university was an incredible experience and greatly enriched my year.
Becoming a MORA Content Creator
Collaborating with the team and generating content for over 700,000 followers across Imperial’s social media platforms made my time with the MORA team a fantasy come true. It encompassed storytelling and showcasing the student experience, acquiring knowledge of institutional communication, and grasping the tone and authenticity that resonate with varied audiences.
This position opened up unexpected doors, such as interviewing notable personalities like Rishi Sunak and Akshata Murty. None of these opportunities would have materialized without seizing that first chance. The MORA team is welcoming, supportive, and offers a creative environment for experimentation. If you are passionate about storytelling and wish to participate in exciting content projects, this is one of the finest part-time positions at Imperial.
Finding part-time opportunities
There are numerous avenues to discover part-time employment while pursuing studies at Imperial. I located mine via Imperial’s internal job postings on JobsLive, LinkedIn, and career events during Welcome Week. The essential strategy is to customize your CV for the position and demonstrate enthusiasm. Imperial’s Careers Service can assist with CV crafting, mock interviews, and job placement support. Most part-time employers prioritize reliability, initiative, and amiability over mere experience.
Balancing work and study
Juggling work alongside coursework necessitates careful planning. I opted for shifts during weeks when my class timetable was lighter. Keep in mind, your degree takes precedence, yet a judiciously chosen part-time position can enhance your academic experience. My marketing modules seemed more significant when I witnessed those principles applied in actual jobs.
Exploring different part-time jobs
Throughout my Master’s program, I explored several positions including waiter, event coordinator, barista, and bartender. Every role imparted unique lessons. Work in hospitality taught me true customer service skills, patience, teamwork, and how to maintain composure under stress. These insights have stayed with me beyond the café setting.
Financial independence and visa rules
From a financial standpoint, part-time roles were invaluable, helping to cover rent, commuting, and living costs, while also allowing for some savings. As an international student, I had the ability to work up to 20 hours per week during term and full-time during breaks, balancing earnings with rest time.
It’s essential to adhere to visa regulations, as working beyond the permitted hours can jeopardize your visa status. Imperial offers clear advice, and it’s prudent to verify conditions prior to accepting any employment.
Final thoughts
Looking back on my part-time experiences at Imperial, it encompassed more than just financial gain. It was about gaining confidence, understanding professionalism in a different culture, and forging connections with diverse individuals. Whether serving coffee or developing digital campaigns, each position imparts valuable lessons for the future.
If you’re embarking on your Master’s and curious about managing your finances while gaining practical experience, consider exploring part-time roles early on. A small “yes” today could lead to opportunities beyond your wildest dreams.
To learn more about my experiences, read my Imperial story.