Authored by Vijay (India), MSc Strategic Marketing
Upon relocating to London as an international student, you quickly realize how expenses begin to pile up, including rent, groceries, transportation, and tuition fees. The professional environment also appears quite different, characterized by new modes of working, communicating, and understanding creativity compared to what you’re used to back home.
For me, part-time employment served as a connection between these two realms, aiding in financial management and providing insight into the UK market, particularly from the angles of marketing and customer experience. My first and most cherished position was as a MORA Content Creator within Imperial’s central marketing team. Getting paid to develop content for a prestigious university was surreal and positively influenced my year.
Becoming a MORA Content Creator
Assisting the team and producing content viewed by over 700,000 individuals across Imperial’s social media platforms was a dream come true. It entailed storytelling and showcasing the student experience, acquiring knowledge about institutional communication, and grasping the tone and authenticity that appeals to various audiences.
This position brought unforeseen opportunities, such as interviewing notable figures including Rishi Sunak and Akshata Murty. None of this would have been possible without embracing that initial chance. The MORA team is welcoming, supportive, and encourages creative experimentation. If you’re passionate about storytelling and eager for engaging content projects, this role stands out as one of the finest part-time positions at Imperial.
Discovering part-time opportunities
There are numerous avenues to discover part-time employment while studying at Imperial. I located mine through Imperial’s internal job boards on JobsLive, LinkedIn, and career fairs during Welcome Week. Customize your CV for each role and demonstrate enthusiasm. Imperial’s Careers Service is available to assist with CVs, mock interviews, and job hunting. Employers look for reliability, initiative, and friendliness, not solely prior experience.
Balancing work and study
Synchronizing work and classes necessitates careful planning. I scheduled shifts during lighter class weeks. Your degree must come first, but a strategically chosen part-time job can enhance your academic pursuits. My marketing coursework became more significant when applied in real-world scenarios.
Exploring various part-time positions
Throughout my Master’s program, I engaged in various occupations such as waiter, event manager, barista, and bartender. Each role imparted unique lessons. Experience in hospitality provided insights into true customer service, patience, teamwork, and maintaining composure under pressure. These abilities have continued to benefit me beyond the café setting.
Financial independence and visa regulations
From a financial perspective, part-time jobs were a lifeline, helping to cover rent, transportation, and living costs while allowing for some savings. International students are permitted to work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during breaks, balancing earnings and relaxation. It’s crucial to follow visa rules since exceeding work hours could impact your visa status. Imperial offers clear guidelines, and it’s prudent to verify conditions prior to accepting a job.
Final reflections
My part-time experience at Imperial extended beyond merely earning an income. It fostered confidence, taught me professionalism within a new culture, and connected me with individuals from various backgrounds. Whether crafting coffee or developing digital campaigns, every position provides valuable insights for the future.
If you’re beginning your Master’s and pondering how to handle your finances while obtaining practical experience, consider part-time roles early on. A small “yes” today could pave the way for larger opportunities than you might anticipate.
To learn more about my experiences, read my Imperial story.