By Vijay (India), MSc Strategic Marketing
Relocating to London as an international scholar quickly highlights how costs can add up, from accommodation and groceries to transportation and tuition fees. You also begin to observe the unique professional culture, featuring new approaches to work, communication, and perspectives on creativity in comparison to your home country.
For me, part-time employment connected these two realms, aiding in financial management and insight into the UK market, particularly regarding marketing and customer experience. My initial and most cherished position was as a MORA Content Creator within Imperial’s main marketing team. It was extraordinary to receive compensation for generating content for a prestigious university, and the experience greatly influenced my year.
Taking on the role of a MORA Content Creator
Collaborating with the MORA team to produce content viewed by over 700,000 individuals across Imperial’s social media platforms was a dream come true. This role involved storytelling and showcasing the student experience, while learning institutional communication and grasping the tone and authenticity that appeals to a variety of audiences.
This position presented unexpected chances, such as interviewing notable figures like Rishi Sunak and Akshata Murty. These experiences sprang from accepting a minor opportunity. The MORA team is supportive, encouraging, and fosters creative experimentation. If you have a passion for storytelling and wish to engage in captivating content projects, this is an excellent part-time position at Imperial.
Locating part-time positions
Numerous avenues exist for discovering part-time employment while studying at Imperial. I uncovered mine via Imperial’s job boards on JobsLive, LinkedIn, and career fairs during Welcome Week. Customize your CV for the specific role and demonstrate enthusiasm. Imperial’s Careers Service can assist with CVs, mock interviews, and job searches. Employers seek reliability, initiative, and approachability, not solely experience.
Managing work and studies
Effectively balancing work and coursework necessitates organization. I opted for shifts when my academic schedule was less demanding. Your degree comes first, but a well-suited part-time job can enhance your educational journey. My marketing coursework felt considerably more relevant when applied to actual job experiences.
Dabbling in various part-time roles
Throughout my Master’s program, I experimented with several jobs, including waiter, event manager, barista, and bartender. Each role imparted distinct lessons. Work in hospitality taught me genuine customer service, patience, teamwork, and maintaining composure in high-pressure situations. These skills have transcended the café environment.
Financial autonomy and visa regulations
From a financial standpoint, part-time positions were vital. I managed to cover rent, travel, and living costs while saving a little. As an international student, I was permitted to work up to 20 hours weekly during term time and full-time during breaks, effectively balancing earnings and downtime.
Adhere closely to visa regulations, as surpassing work hours may impact your visa status. Imperial offers clear guidance, and it’s prudent to verify conditions before accepting a job.
Concluding thoughts
My part-time experience at Imperial encompassed much more than merely making money. It fostered confidence, taught me professionalism within a new cultural context, and connected me with diverse individuals. Whether serving coffee or crafting digital campaigns, every position provided invaluable lessons for the future.
If you’re embarking on your Master’s and contemplating how to manage finances while acquiring real-world experience, consider part-time positions early on. A simple “yes” today might unlock greater experiences than you ever envisioned.
To discover more about my experiences, read my Imperial story.