Authored by Vijay (India), MSc Strategic Marketing
Relocating to London as an international student quickly exposes the ways costs such as rent, groceries, transportation, and tuition can pile up. Moreover, the professional atmosphere feels notably different, showcasing new approaches to working, communicating, and understanding creativity than what I’m accustomed to back home.
Part-time positions bridged these two environments for me, aiding in financial management and offering insights into the UK market, especially regarding marketing and customer experience. My inaugural and most cherished position was as a MORA Content Creator with Imperial’s primary marketing team. Being compensated to generate content for a prestigious university was surreal 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 platforms was a dream come true. It entailed storytelling and conveying the student experience, grasping institutional communication, and recognizing the tone and authenticity that connect with varied audiences.
This position opened up extraordinary possibilities, such as interviewing prominent figures like Rishi Sunak and Akshata Murty. These experiences wouldn’t have been possible without initially saying “yes” to the opportunity. The MORA team is nurturing, supportive, and encourages creative exploration. For those passionate about storytelling and participating in engaging content projects, it stands out as one of the finest part-time roles at Imperial.
Finding part-time opportunities
Numerous avenues exist for finding part-time employment while studying at Imperial. I discovered mine through Imperial’s job boards on JobsLive, LinkedIn, and career fairs during Welcome Week. Customizing your CV for the position and demonstrating enthusiasm is essential. Imperial’s Careers Service can provide assistance with CV writing, mock interviews, and job searches. Employers prioritize reliability, initiative, and friendliness, not solely experience.
Balancing work and study
Juggling work and studies necessitates organization. I arranged shifts for times when my academic workload was lighter. Your degree remains the main focus, but a strategically selected part-time job can enhance your studies. My marketing assignments felt more applicable when linked to real-life jobs.
Exploring different part-time jobs
Throughout my Master’s program, I explored various roles including waiter, event manager, barista, and bartender. Each provided distinct learning experiences. My time in hospitality imparted true customer service lessons, patience, teamwork, and composure under stress. These skills have extended beyond the café setting.
Financial independence and visa rules
Part-time jobs were essential financially, supporting rent, travel, and living costs, while allowing some savings. International students are permitted to work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during holidays, maintaining a balance between income and downtime. Compliance with visa regulations is crucial, as exceeding work hours can jeopardize visa status. Imperial offers clear guidance, so always confirm conditions before accepting employment.
Final thoughts
My part-time experience at Imperial was beyond mere monetary gain; it fostered confidence, introduced professionalism in a new cultural context, and allowed me to connect with a variety of people. Every position, from serving coffee to designing digital campaigns, provides invaluable lessons for the future.
If you’re embarking on your Master’s and contemplating how to manage finances while gaining practical experience, start looking for part-time positions early. A small “yes” today could open doors to experiences far beyond what you’ve imagined.
To learn more about my experiences, read my Imperial story.