Authored by Vijay (India), MSc Strategic Marketing
Upon relocating to London as an international student, one swiftly observes how costs pile up, from housing and food to transport and tuition fees. Another realization is the unique professional culture, encompassing various perspectives on work, communication, and creativity compared to one’s home country.
Part-time employment served as a bridge between these realms for me, aiding in financial management and gaining insights into the UK market, particularly through the lens of marketing and customer experience. My initial and favorite position was as a MORA Content Creator with Imperial’s central marketing division. It felt surreal to receive compensation for producing content for a prestigious university, positively influencing my year.
Becoming a MORA Content Creator
Contributing to the team and generating content viewed by over 700,000 individuals on Imperial’s social media platforms made collaboration with the MORA team a fantasy come true. It required storytelling and sharing student experiences, grasping institutional communication, and mastering tone and authenticity for various audiences.
This position provided unforeseen opportunities, such as interviewing notable personalities like Rishi Sunak and Akshata Murty. None of this would have transpired without accepting that first opportunity. The MORA team is supportive, welcoming, and enables creative exploration. If you are passionate about storytelling and wish to participate in captivating content projects, this ranks among the top part-time positions at Imperial.
Finding part-time opportunities
There are numerous pathways to discover part-time work at Imperial. I located mine through Imperial’s internal job boards on JobsLive, LinkedIn, and career fairs during Welcome Week. Essential advice includes customizing your CV for the position and demonstrating enthusiasm. Imperial’s Careers Service can assist with CVs, mock interviews, and job guidance. Most part-time employers prioritize reliability, initiative, and friendliness over mere experience.
Balancing work and study
Juggling work and academic responsibilities necessitates organization. I arranged shifts during periods when my class load was lighter. Your degree takes precedence, but a well-selected part-time job can enhance your studies. My marketing coursework felt more relevant when applied to actual job scenarios.
Exploring different part-time jobs
Throughout my Master’s, I experimented with various roles such as waiter, event coordinator, barista, and bartender. Every position imparted distinct lessons. Work in hospitality provided genuine customer service experience, patience, collaboration, and composure under stress. These abilities remain beneficial beyond the café environment.
Financial independence and visa rules
From a financial standpoint, part-time positions were essential. I managed to cover rent, travel, and living costs, and even saved a bit. As an international student, I was allowed to work up to 20 hours weekly during term and full-time during vacations, balancing income and downtime.
Adhering to visa regulations is vital, as exceeding work hours may impact visa status. Imperial offers clear instructions, and it’s prudent to verify conditions prior to accepting positions.
Final thoughts
Looking back on my part-time experience at Imperial, it encompassed more than just earning income. It nurtured confidence, imparted professionalism within a new culture, and connected me with a variety of individuals. Whether crafting coffee or developing digital campaigns, each role presents valuable lessons for the future.
If you’re embarking on your Master’s and contemplating how to handle finances while obtaining real-world exposure and experience, begin exploring part-time opportunities early. A small “yes” today could lead to far richer experiences than you can envision.
To learn more about my experiences, read my Imperial story.