Authored by Vijay (India), MSc Strategic Marketing
Upon relocating to London as an international student, you will soon realize how costs such as rent, groceries, travel, and tuition can add up quickly. Furthermore, the professional environment may seem distinctly different, featuring new approaches to working, communicating, and defining creativity compared to your home country.
For me, part-time employment acted as a link between these two realms, aiding in financial management and providing insights into the UK market from a marketing and customer service viewpoint. My initial and preferred position was as a MORA Content Creator with Imperial’s central marketing department. It was extraordinary to receive compensation for creating content for a prestigious university, and the experience greatly enriched my year.
Becoming a MORA Content Creator
Collaborating with the MORA team and producing content for over 700,000 individuals across Imperial’s social media platforms was a fantasy come true. It included storytelling and conveying the student experience, mastering institutional communication, and grasping the tone and authenticity that appeal to varied audiences.
This position presented unforeseen opportunities, including interviews with public figures like Rishi Sunak and Akshata Murty. None of this would have transpired if I had not embraced that initial opportunity. The MORA team is welcoming and supportive, offering a creative environment for experimentation. If you enjoy storytelling and wish to participate in engaging content projects, this is among the finest part-time positions at Imperial.
Finding part-time opportunities
There are numerous avenues to discover part-time employment while attending Imperial. I located mine via Imperial’s internal job boards on JobsLive, LinkedIn, and career fairs during Welcome Week. The key is to customize your CV for the role and demonstrate enthusiasm. Imperial’s Careers Service offers assistance with CVs, mock interviews, and job hunting. Most part-time employers value reliability, initiative, and friendliness, beyond mere experience.
Balancing work and study
Effectively balancing work and coursework necessitates planning. I organized shifts during periods when my class workload was lighter. Keep in mind, your degree is the main priority, but a well-chosen part-time job can enhance your studies. My marketing coursework became more relevant as I applied those concepts in real-world positions.
Exploring different part-time jobs
Throughout my Master’s program, I experimented with various roles such as waiter, event manager, barista, and bartender. Each position imparted unique lessons. Hospitality roles taught me genuine customer service, patience, teamwork, and maintaining composure under pressure. These insights have accompanied me outside of the café environment.
Financial independence and visa rules
Financially, part-time positions proved to be essential. I managed to cover my rent, travel, and living costs and even saved some money. As an international student, I was allowed to work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during holidays, providing a balance between income and rest.
It is vital to adhere to visa regulations meticulously, as exceeding working hours may jeopardize your visa status. Imperial offers clear advice, and it’s prudent to verify conditions before accepting any position.
Final thoughts
Looking back on my part-time experience at Imperial, it was more than just a means to earn money. It was about fostering confidence, learning professional conduct in a new cultural setting, and connecting with a spectrum of individuals. Whether serving coffee or developing digital campaigns, every position provides invaluable lessons for the future.
If you are embarking on your Master’s journey and pondering how to handle finances while gaining practical exposure, I suggest exploring part-time roles early on. A modest “yes” today could lead to much richer experiences tomorrow.
To learn more about my experiences, read my Imperial story.