Written by Vijay (India), MSc Strategic Marketing
As an international student in London, it’s immediate to observe how costs like rent, groceries, travel, and tuition add up quickly. The work culture is also notably distinct, with new methods of working, communicating, and viewing creativity compared to your home country.
Part-time positions helped connect these two realms for me, allowing me to manage my finances and gain insights into the UK market, especially in marketing and customer experience. My first and preferred position was as a MORA Content Creator within Imperial’s central marketing division. It felt surreal to receive payment for generating content for a top university, and the experience had a positive impact on my year.
Joining as a MORA Content Creator
Being part of the MORA team and crafting content for over 700,000 individuals on Imperial’s social media was a dream come true. This role involved storytelling and sharing student experiences, learning institutional communication, as well as grasping the tone and authenticity that resonates with a wide range of audiences.
This position provided unexpected chances, such as interviewing public figures like Rishi Sunak and Akshata Murty. These opportunities wouldn’t have emerged without seizing that initial chance. The MORA team is encouraging, nurturing, and provides creative freedom for experimentation. If you have a passion for storytelling and engaging in exciting content projects, this is among the best part-time positions at Imperial.
Locating part-time opportunities
There are numerous avenues to discover part-time work at Imperial. I secured mine through Imperial’s internal job boards on JobsLive, LinkedIn, and career fairs during Welcome Week. Customize your CV to the specific role you’re applying for and exhibit enthusiasm. Imperial’s Careers Service can help with CVs, mock interviews, and job searches. Employers look for dependability, initiative, and friendliness, not solely experience.
Maintaining work-study balance
Balancing work and study necessitates careful planning. I organized my shifts when my class schedule was less demanding. Your academic degree takes precedence, but a well-chosen part-time job can enhance your studies. My marketing coursework became more relevant when applied to real-world roles.
Exploring diverse part-time positions
Throughout my Master’s, I experimented with various jobs including waiter, event manager, barista, and bartender. Each offered distinct lessons. My experience in hospitality provided genuine customer service skills, patience, teamwork, and the ability to remain composed under pressure. These skills continue to benefit me beyond the café.
Financial autonomy and visa considerations
Financially, part-time jobs were essential. I managed to cover rent, travel, and living costs, while even saving some money. International students are permitted to work up to 20 hours weekly during term time and full-time during breaks, allowing for a balance between income and rest. It’s important to adhere to visa rules, as exceeding work hours can jeopardize visa status. Imperial offers guidance, and it’s prudent to review conditions before accepting positions.
Concluding thoughts
Looking back on my part-time experience at Imperial, it was much more than just earning money. It helped build my confidence, taught me professionalism in a new cultural context, and connected me with a diverse array of individuals. Whether I was brewing coffee or crafting digital campaigns, each role provided valuable lessons for my future.
If you’re starting your Master’s and thinking about managing finances while obtaining real-world experience, start exploring part-time roles early. A simple “yes” today could lead to unexpectedly significant experiences.
To discover more about my experiences, check out my Imperial story.