Authored by Vijay (India), MSc Strategic Marketing
Relocating to London as an international student quickly uncovers how costs can pile up, ranging from rent and groceries to transportation and tuition fees. Another insight is the unique professional culture, where work, communication, and creativity are viewed differently compared to my home country.
Part-time employment connected these two realms for me, aiding in financial management and providing insights into the UK market, especially from a marketing and customer experience standpoint. My initial and preferred position was as a MORA Content Creator with Imperial’s main marketing team. Getting paid to produce content for a prominent university felt surreal and positively influenced my year.
Becoming a MORA Content Creator
Collaborating with the MORA team, developing content for over 700,000 individuals across Imperial’s social media platforms, was a fantasy come true. It encompassed storytelling and portraying the student experience, mastering institutional communication, and gaining an understanding of the tone and authenticity that resonates with varied audiences.
This position provided unexpected chances, like interviewing notable figures such as Rishi Sunak and Akshata Murty. These moments wouldn’t have occurred without embracing that first humble opportunity. The MORA team is friendly, supportive, and encourages creative exploration. For those passionate about storytelling and participating in exciting content projects, this is one of the premier part-time opportunities at Imperial.
Finding part-time opportunities
There are numerous avenues to discover part-time work while studying at Imperial. I located mine via Imperial’s internal job boards on JobsLive, LinkedIn, and career fairs held during Welcome Week. Customize your CV to the specific role you’re targeting and express enthusiasm. Imperial’s Careers Service can assist with CV refinement, interview practice, and job hunting. Most part-time employers value reliability, initiative, and friendliness over mere experience.
Balancing work and study
Managing work alongside classes necessitates organization. I accepted shifts only when my class schedule was less demanding. Your degree takes precedence, but a well-selected part-time job can enhance your studies. My marketing coursework gained more relevance when applied in practical work settings.
Exploring different part-time jobs
Throughout my Master’s, I explored various positions, including waiter, event manager, barista, and bartender. Each job imparted distinct lessons. Roles in hospitality taught vital customer service skills, patience, teamwork, and the ability to remain composed under pressure. These skills have remained with me beyond the café environment.
Financial independence and visa regulations
On a financial level, part-time jobs were essential. I managed to cover rent, travel, and living costs and even set aside some savings. As an international student, I was allowed to work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during breaks, striking a balance between income and rest.
Complying with visa guidelines is essential, as exceeding working hours can impact visa status. Imperial offers clear advice, and it’s prudent to double-check conditions before accepting any employment.
Final reflections
My part-time journey at Imperial was beyond mere financial gain. It fostered confidence, instilled professionalism in an unfamiliar culture, and connected me with a diverse group of individuals. Whether serving coffee or crafting digital campaigns, every position imparts valuable lessons for the future.
If you’re commencing your Master’s and pondering how to manage finances while acquiring real-world experience, start exploring part-time roles early. A simple “yes” today could unlock opportunities for much greater experiences.
To discover more about my experiences, read my Imperial story.