Authored by Vijay (India), MSc Strategic Marketing
Upon relocating to London as an international student, one quickly realizes how costs add up, ranging from rent and groceries to transportation and tuition. The work culture here feels notably different, introducing new methods of working, communicating, and perceiving creativity in comparison to one’s home country.
In my case, part-time jobs acted as a link between these two realms. They helped me control my finances and provided insight into the UK market, especially from a marketing and customer experience viewpoint. My initial and favored position was as a MORA Content Creator with Imperial’s core marketing team. It felt surreal to be compensated for creating content for a prestigious university, and the experience positively influenced my year.
Becoming a MORA Content Creator
Collaborating with the MORA team to generate content for over 700,000 individuals across Imperial’s social media channels was a fantasy come true. It involved narrative crafting and sharing the student experience, mastering institutional communication, and grasping the tone and authenticity that appeal to varied audiences.
This position opened doors to unexpected experiences, such as interviewing notable figures like Rishi Sunak and Akshata Murty. None of this would have come to fruition if I hadn’t seized that original opportunity. The MORA team fosters support and encourages creativity. If you are passionate about storytelling and are eager to engage in captivating content projects, this stands out as one of the finest part-time roles at Imperial.
Discovering part-time opportunities
There are numerous avenues to discover part-time employment while attending Imperial. I found my positions through Imperial’s internal job platforms on JobsLive, LinkedIn, and career fairs during Welcome Week. Customize your CV to match the role you are seeking and express enthusiasm. Imperial’s Careers Service offers assistance with CVs, mock interviews, and job hunting. Keep in mind, employers appreciate dependability, initiative, and friendliness as much as experience.
Managing work and study
Successfully balancing work and academia requires careful planning. I accepted shifts only when my academic schedule was less demanding. Your degree should take precedence, but a strategically chosen part-time role can enhance your studies. My marketing coursework felt more relevant when applied to actual jobs.
Trying out different part-time positions
Throughout my Master’s program, I explored various roles like waiter, event manager, barista, and bartender. Each provided me with unique lessons. Working in hospitality taught me genuine customer service skills, patience, teamwork, and how to remain composed under pressure. These competencies have endured well beyond the café environment.
Financial self-sufficiency and visa regulations
From a financial perspective, part-time positions were invaluable. I managed to cover my rent, travel, and living expenses, and even managed to save a little. As an international student, I was allowed to work up to 20 hours each week during term time and full-time during holidays, achieving a balance between earnings and relaxation.
It’s essential to comply with visa requirements, as exceeding work hours could jeopardize your visa status. Imperial offers clear instructions on this matter, and it’s prudent to verify conditions before accepting any employment.
Concluding reflections
Reflecting on my part-time journey at Imperial, it was not solely about earning income. It was a process of cultivating confidence, learning professionalism within a new culture, and connecting with a diverse array of individuals. Whether making coffee or producing digital campaigns, every position imparts invaluable lessons for the future.
If you’re embarking on your Master’s and contemplating how to manage finances while acquiring real-world experience, I highly encourage you to seek out part-time positions early on. The small “yes” you agree to today could pave the way for experiences you can’t even imagine.
To learn more about my experiences, read my Imperial story.