Authored by Vijay (India), MSc Strategic Marketing
Upon arriving in London as an international student, the first thing that stands out is how quickly costs add up, from accommodation and food to transportation and tuition fees. The second insight is the unique professional culture. The work ethic, communication styles, and attitudes towards creativity are vastly different from what I was accustomed to back home.
For me, part-time employment acted as a link between these two realms. It assisted me in budgeting my expenses and gaining insights into the UK market, particularly from a marketing and customer experience standpoint. My first and most enjoyable position was as a MORA Content Creator within Imperial’s central marketing team. Getting paid to generate content for a prestigious university was incredibly rewarding and positively influenced my year.
Becoming 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 like a dream come true. It involved crafting narratives and showcasing the student experience, mastering institutional communication, and grasping the tone and authenticity that appeal to varied audiences.
This position provided opportunities I never anticipated, including interviewing high-profile figures like Rishi Sunak and Akshata Murty. None of it would have been possible if I hadn’t accepted that first opportunity. The MORA team is supportive, encouraging, and fosters a creative environment for experimentation. If you have a passion for storytelling and want to participate in engaging content initiatives, this is among the best part-time positions at Imperial.
Finding part-time opportunities
There are numerous methods to discover part-time work while studying at Imperial. I secured my position through Imperial’s internal job boards on JobsLive, LinkedIn, and career fairs held during Welcome Week. The key is to customize your CV for the specific role you are applying for and demonstrate enthusiasm. Imperial’s Careers Service is available to assist with CV writing, mock interviews, and job searches. Most part-time employers look for not only previous experience but also reliability, initiative, and a friendly demeanor.
Balancing work and study
Managing work and academic responsibilities requires careful planning. I chose shifts only when my class schedule was less demanding. Keep in mind, your education is the priority, but a thoughtfully selected part-time job can enhance your studies. My marketing classes felt more relevant when I could apply those concepts in real-world professional environments.
Exploring different part-time jobs
Throughout my Master’s program, I explored a variety of roles such as waiter, event manager, barista, and bartender. Each position imparted unique lessons. Working in hospitality taught me about genuine customer service, patience, teamwork, and maintaining composure under pressure. These insights and skills have remained with me long after my time behind the café counter.
Financial independence and visa rules
On a financial level, part-time jobs proved to be invaluable. I managed to cover rent, transportation, and living costs, and even set aside some savings. As an international student, I was permitted to work up to 20 hours per week during the term and full-time during break periods, effectively balancing my income and downtime.
It is essential to adhere strictly to visa guidelines, as exceeding work hours can jeopardize your visa status. Imperial offers clear instructions, and it is prudent to verify conditions before accepting any employment.
Final thoughts
Reflecting on my part-time experience at Imperial, it was more than simply a means to earn money. It was about gaining confidence, learning to navigate professionalism in a different culture, and building relationships with a diverse set of individuals. Whether serving coffee or developing digital campaigns, each role imparts something worthwhile for the future.
If you’re commencing your Master’s and pondering how to navigate finances while gaining practical experience, I encourage you to investigate part-time roles early on. The small “yes” you offer today could lead to opportunities far beyond what you expect.
To learn more about my experiences, read my Imperial story.