Authored by Vijay (India), MSc Strategic Marketing
Upon relocating to London as an international student, you quickly perceive how costs pile up, ranging from rent and groceries to transportation and tuition. The professional environment also appears distinct, showcasing new methods of working, communicating, and interpreting creativity in contrast to your home country.
Part-time employment connected these realms for me, aiding in finance management and gaining insights into the UK market, particularly from a marketing and customer experience angle. My initial and most enjoyable position was as a MORA Content Creator with Imperial’s central marketing team. Being compensated for creating content for a prestigious university was surreal and positively influenced my year.
Becoming a MORA Content Creator
Assisting the team and developing content that reached over 700,000 individuals across Imperial’s social media was a fantasy. It included storytelling and expressing the student experience, learning institutional communication, and grasping tone and authenticity for varied audiences.
This position provided unexpected chances, such as interviewing public figures like Rishi Sunak and Akshata Murty. These opportunities would not have arisen without accepting that initial offer. The MORA team is friendly, supportive, and promotes creative exploration. If you have a passion for storytelling and wish to partake in engaging content projects, this is among the finest part-time positions at Imperial.
Finding part-time opportunities
Numerous avenues exist to discover part-time employment while studying at Imperial. I secured mine through Imperial’s internal job boards on JobsLive, LinkedIn, and career fairs during Welcome Week. Ensure your CV is customized for the position you are targeting and exhibit enthusiasm. Imperial’s Careers Service can assist with your CV, mock interviews, and job search. Keep in mind that employers value reliability, initiative, and friendliness, not just prior experience.
Balancing work and study
Managing work and school necessitates organization. I accepted shifts only when my class timetable was less demanding. Your degree remains the focal point, but a thoughtfully selected part-time position can enhance your academic journey. My marketing studies gained relevance when applied in practical job scenarios.
Exploring different part-time jobs
Throughout my Master’s program, I explored various roles including waiter, event manager, barista, and bartender. Each provided unique insights. Experiences in hospitality cultivated genuine customer service skills, patience, teamwork, and the ability to remain calm under pressure. These lessons and competencies have persisted beyond the café environment.
Financial independence and visa rules
Financially, part-time roles were invaluable, covering rent, travel, and living costs, with some savings accumulated. As an international student, I was permitted to work up to 20 hours weekly during term time and full-time during breaks, achieving a balance between earnings and rest.
Adhering to visa regulations is essential, as surpassing work hours may impact your visa status. Imperial offers clear instructions, and it is prudent to verify the conditions before accepting any position.
Final thoughts
My part-time experience at Imperial transcended mere financial gain. It focused on enhancing confidence, grasping professionalism within a new culture, and connecting with a variety of individuals. From making coffee to designing digital campaigns, every position imparts significant lessons for the future.
If you are embarking on your Master’s journey and pondering how to handle finances while acquiring real-world skills and experience, consider exploring part-time positions early. A simple “yes” today could lead to much greater opportunities.
To delve deeper into my experiences, read my Imperial story.