Authored by Vijay (India), MSc Strategic Marketing
Relocating to London as an international student quickly exposes how expenses can stack up, ranging from housing and food to transportation and tuition fees. Another awakening is the unique professional environment, where work ethics, communication styles, and creativity contrast sharply with those from my homeland.
Part-time employment helped me bridge these contrasting worlds, supporting my financial needs while providing insights into the UK marketplace, especially in marketing and customer experience. My inaugural and most cherished position was as a MORA Content Creator with the central marketing team at Imperial. Earning a paycheck for creating content for a prestigious university felt surreal and positively influenced my year.
Becoming 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 media platforms. It involved crafting narratives and sharing the student journey, mastering institutional communication, and grasping the tone and authenticity that appeal to varied audiences.
This position provided incredible opportunities, such as interviewing prominent figures like Rishi Sunak and Akshata Murty. None of this would have been possible without seizing that initial chance. The MORA team is welcoming, supportive, and fosters creative exploration. For those passionate about storytelling and participating in engaging content projects, this is one of the finest part-time positions at Imperial.
Finding part-time opportunities
There are numerous avenues to seek part-time employment while enrolled at Imperial. I discovered mine via Imperial’s internal job platforms on JobsLive, LinkedIn, and career fairs during Welcome Week. Customize your CV for the position and express enthusiasm. Imperial’s Careers Service can aid with CV development, interview preparation, and job hunting. Employers value reliability, initiative, and friendliness, not just experience.
Balancing work and study
Managing work and studies necessitates planning. I arranged my shifts during weeks with lighter course loads. Keep in mind that your degree takes precedence, but a well-selected part-time job can enhance your educational experience. My marketing assignments felt significantly more relevant when connected to real-world employment.
Exploring different part-time jobs
Throughout my Master’s program, I explored various roles such as server, event coordinator, barista, and bartender. Each position imparted unique lessons. Work in the hospitality sector taught essential customer service skills, patience, teamwork, and maintaining composure under pressure, competencies that transcend the café environment.
Financial independence and visa rules
Financially, part-time positions were vital, helping to cover rent, travel, and living expenses, along with some savings. International students are permitted to work up to 20 hours per week during term and full-time during breaks, balancing earning potential with rest. It’s important to adhere to visa regulations, as exceeding work hours may affect visa status. Imperial offers clear guidance, and it’s prudent to confirm conditions before accepting positions.
Final thoughts
Looking back on my part-time experience at Imperial, it was about more than just earning income. It fostered confidence, instilled professionalism in a new cultural context, and allowed me to connect with a diverse array of individuals. Whether brewing coffee or designing digital campaigns, each role provides invaluable lessons for the future.
If you’re embarking on your Master’s and contemplating how to manage finances while gaining real-world experience, begin exploring part-time roles early. A small “yes” today could lead to opportunities much greater than you anticipate.
To learn more about my experiences, read my Imperial story.