Authored by Vijay (India), MSc Strategic Marketing
Relocating to London as an international student quickly shows how costs can escalate, from accommodation and groceries to travel and tuition fees. Moreover, the work culture feels markedly different, with novel approaches to working, communicating, and appreciating creativity compared to my homeland.
For me, part-time employment connected these two realms, aiding in financial management and providing insights into the UK market from a marketing and customer experience viewpoint. My inaugural and most cherished position was as a MORA Content Creator with the central marketing team at Imperial. It felt surreal to receive compensation for creating content for a prestigious university, and the experience significantly influenced my year.
Becoming a MORA Content Creator
Collaborating with the MORA team was a dream come true, supporting the group and producing content viewed by over 700,000 individuals across Imperial’s social media platforms. It extended beyond filming or writing into storytelling and sharing the student experience, mastering institutional communication, and grasping the tone and authenticity that resonates with varied audiences.
This position presented unforeseen possibilities, such as interviewing prominent figures like Rishi Sunak and Akshata Murty. These experiences would not have occurred without accepting that initial opportunity. The MORA team is welcoming, supportive, and encourages creative experimentation. If you are passionate about storytelling and desire to get involved in engaging content projects, this is one of the prime part-time positions at Imperial.
Finding part-time opportunities
Numerous methods exist to discover part-time employment while studying at Imperial. I discovered mine through Imperial’s internal job boards on JobsLive, LinkedIn, and career fairs during Welcome Week. The essential point is to customize your CV for the position you’re applying for and demonstrate enthusiasm. Imperial’s Careers Service can assist with CV preparation, interview practice, and job searches. Keep in mind that most part-time employers value reliability, proactivity, and approachability, not just experience.
Balancing work and study
Managing work and classes necessitates planning. I accepted shifts only during lighter class weeks. Your degree remains the priority, yet a well-selected part-time job can enhance your studies. My marketing coursework became more relevant as I observed those concepts in actual jobs.
Exploring different part-time jobs
Throughout my Master’s program, I experimented with various positions such as waiter, event manager, barista, and bartender. Each position imparted unique lessons. Work in hospitality taught me about genuine customer service, patience, teamwork, and remaining composed under pressure. These valuable lessons and skills have remained with me beyond the café setting.
Financial independence and visa rules
Financially, part-time positions proved invaluable, covering rent, transportation, and living costs, while allowing for some savings. Being an international student, I could work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during breaks, balancing income and downtime. It’s crucial to follow visa regulations, as exceeding work limits can impact your visa status. Imperial offers clear guidance, and it’s prudent to verify conditions before accepting any job.
Final thoughts
Looking back on my part-time experience at Imperial, it was about more than just earning money. It was about developing confidence, learning professionalism in a different cultural context, and engaging with a diverse array of individuals. Whether making coffee or crafting digital campaigns, every role imparts essential lessons for the future.
If you’re commencing your Master’s and contemplating how to handle finances while gaining real-world exposure and experience, I suggest considering part-time positions early on. A simple “yes” today might lead to experiences beyond your imagination.
To learn more about my experiences, read my Imperial story.