Written by Vijay (India), MSc Strategic Marketing
Upon settling in London as an international student, you soon realize how quickly expenses such as rent, food, transportation, and tuition can add up. Another awareness is the unique professional culture, where work, communication, and creativity are viewed differently compared to your home country.
Part-time employment acted as a link between these two environments for me, assisting with financial management and offering insights into the UK market from a marketing and customer experience standpoint. My first and most enjoyable position was as a MORA Content Creator with the central marketing team at Imperial. Being compensated for creating content for a prestigious university felt unreal and had a positive impact on my year.
Becoming a MORA Content Creator
Collaborating with the MORA team to produce content for over 700,000 individuals across Imperial’s social media was a dream come true. It required storytelling, sharing student experiences, mastering institutional communication, and grasping the tone and authenticity that resonates with varied audiences.
This position provided incredible opportunities, such as interviewing notable figures like Rishi Sunak and Akshata Murty. None of this would have been possible without accepting that first chance. The MORA team is encouraging and fosters creative exploration. If you enjoy storytelling and working on intriguing content projects, this is among the top part-time positions at Imperial.
Finding part-time opportunities
There are numerous avenues to discover part-time employment while studying at Imperial. I secured mine through Imperial’s internal job portals on JobsLive, LinkedIn, and career fairs during Welcome Week. Customize your CV for the position and demonstrate enthusiasm. Imperial’s Careers Service can assist with CVs, mock interviews, and job hunting. Employers prioritize reliability, initiative, and friendliness, in addition to experience.
Balancing work and study
Balancing employment and academic commitments requires organization. I arranged my shifts when my course load was lighter. Your degree should come first, but a carefully selected part-time job can enhance your studies. My marketing coursework became more significant when applied in practical work situations.
Exploring different part-time jobs
Throughout my Master’s, I explored various positions such as waiter, event manager, barista, and bartender. Each role provided distinct lessons. Experiences in hospitality taught real customer service skills, patience, teamwork, and maintaining composure under stress. These abilities have persisted beyond the café environment.
Financial independence and visa rules
Financially, part-time positions were vital. I managed rent, travel, and living costs, and even managed to save some money. As an international student, I could work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during holidays, striking a balance between income and rest.
Complying with visa regulations is crucial, as exceeding work limits can impact your visa status. Imperial offers clear guidance, and it’s wise to check the conditions before taking on a job.
Final thoughts
Reflecting on my part-time experiences at Imperial, it transcended mere financial gain. It fostered confidence, instilled professionalism in a new environment, and connected me with a diverse array of individuals. Whether serving coffee or crafting digital campaigns, every position imparts invaluable lessons for the future.
If you’re beginning your Master’s and contemplating managing finances while acquiring real-world experience, consider part-time positions early on. A simple “yes” today could unfold experiences beyond your imagination.
To discover more about my experiences, read my Imperial story.