By Vijay (India), MSc Strategic Marketing
Relocating to London as an international student swiftly unveils the elevated cost of living, including rent, groceries, transportation, and tuition fees. Furthermore, the professional environment is distinctly different, highlighting new methodologies of working, communicating, and interpreting creativity.
Part-time employment acted as a bridge for me, aiding in financial management and offering insights into the UK market, especially from a marketing and customer experience viewpoint. My initial and preferred role was as a MORA Content Creator within Imperial’s central marketing team. It was a remarkable experience to be compensated for generating content for a top university, positively influencing my entire year.
Becoming a MORA Content Creator
Collaborating with the MORA team to produce content for over 700,000 viewers across Imperial’s social media platforms was a fantasy come true. It entailed storytelling and showcasing the student experience, mastering institutional communication, and grasping tone and authenticity for varied audiences.
This position brought unforeseen opportunities, such as interviewing public figures like Rishi Sunak and Akshata Murty. These experiences would not have occurred if I hadn’t seized that initial opportunity. The MORA team is encouraging and promotes creative experimentation. If you are passionate about storytelling and engaging in content-related projects, this is one of the finest part-time positions at Imperial.
Finding part-time opportunities
Many avenues exist for discovering part-time employment while studying at Imperial. I utilized Imperial’s internal job boards on JobsLive, LinkedIn, and participated in career fairs during Welcome Week. Customize your CV for the position and express genuine eagerness. Imperial’s Careers Service can help with CV writing, interview preparation, and job hunting. Employers look for dependability, initiative, and friendliness, not solely experience.
Balancing work and study
Managing work and academics necessitates careful planning. I arranged shifts for times when my class schedule was less demanding. Your degree should be the main focus, but a thoughtfully chosen part-time job can enhance your studies. My marketing coursework felt more pertinent when linked to real-life jobs.
Exploring different part-time jobs
Throughout my Master’s, I experimented with various jobs such as waiter, event manager, barista, and bartender. Each position imparted distinct lessons. Experience in hospitality taught genuine customer service, patience, teamwork, and maintaining composure under stress. These abilities have proven beneficial beyond the café setting.
Financial independence and visa rules
From a financial standpoint, part-time jobs were vital, covering rent, transportation, and living costs, along with some savings. As an international student, I was permitted to work up to 20 hours weekly during term time and full-time during breaks, balancing earnings and rest.
Adhering to visa stipulations is crucial, as exceeding work limits can impact your visa status. Imperial offers clear instructions, and it’s prudent to confirm conditions before accepting any job.
Final thoughts
Looking back on my part-time experience at Imperial, it was about more than just financial gain. It enhanced my confidence, instilled professionalism in a new culture, and helped me connect with a variety of people. Whether making coffee or crafting digital campaigns, each position provides meaningful lessons for the future.
If you’re embarking on your Master’s and seeking to manage finances while gaining real-world experience, consider part-time jobs early on. A small “yes” today could yield significantly greater opportunities than you anticipate.
To learn more about my experiences, read my Imperial story.