Authored by Vijay (India), MSc Strategic Marketing
Upon relocating to London as an international student, the reality of costs such as rent, groceries, transport, and tuition becomes apparent quickly. The professional environment also presents a stark contrast, showcasing new approaches to working, communicating, and interpreting creativity.
Part-time employment served as a bridge between these realms for me, aiding in financial management and providing insight into the UK market, particularly from a marketing and customer experience viewpoint. My inaugural and most cherished position was as a MORA Content Creator with Imperial’s central marketing unit. Developing content for a premier university was an extraordinary and positively influential journey.
Becoming a MORA Content Creator
Collaborating with the MORA team to craft content viewed by over 700,000 individuals across Imperial’s social media platforms was a dream come true. This role encompassed storytelling and articulating the student experience, acquiring knowledge in institutional communication, and grasping tone and authenticity for varied audiences.
This position provided unforeseen experiences, including interviews with prominent figures like Rishi Sunak and Akshata Murty. Accepting that first opportunity paved the way. The MORA team is inviting, supportive, and promotes creative exploration. For those passionate about storytelling and engaging in content initiatives, this is among the finest part-time positions at Imperial.
Finding part-time opportunities
Numerous avenues exist for securing part-time work at Imperial, including Imperial’s internal job platforms on JobsLive, LinkedIn, and career fairs during Welcome Week. Customize your CV for each role and express enthusiasm. Imperial’s Careers Service can assist with CV development, interview practice, and job searches. Employers value dependability, initiative, and friendliness, beyond mere experience.
Balancing work and study
Successfully managing work alongside classes necessitates careful scheduling. I arranged shifts during weeks with lighter class loads. While your degree should take precedence, a strategically chosen part-time job can enrich your academic experience. My marketing classes gained depth when related to real-world job applications.
Exploring different part-time jobs
Throughout my Master’s program, I experimented with various positions such as waiter, event coordinator, barista, and bartender. Each role imparted distinct insights. Experience in hospitality cultivated genuine customer service skills, patience, teamwork, and composure under stress. These abilities have proven valuable beyond the café counter.
Financial independence and visa rules
Part-time jobs were essential for financial support, covering rent, travel, and living costs, along with some savings. International students are permitted to work up to 20 hours weekly during the academic term and full-time during breaks, maintaining a balance between income and rest. It’s crucial to comply with visa guidelines, as exceeding work hours could impact visa status. Imperial offers clear information, so it’s wise to verify conditions prior to job acceptance.
Final thoughts
My part-time experience at Imperial extended beyond mere monetary gain. It fostered confidence, imparted professionalism within a new cultural context, and connected me with a diverse group of individuals. Every position, whether serving coffee or crafting digital marketing campaigns, provides invaluable lessons for the future.
If you’re embarking on your Master’s and pondering how to manage finances while acquiring real-world experience, consider exploring part-time opportunities early on. A small “yes” today could open doors to unexpectedly impactful experiences.
To discover more about my journey, read my Imperial story.