Is it hard for American college students in London (England) to find a job in the city?

Question

I am hoping to get into Richmond International University in a couple years, but I will have to find means to pay my way. I realize there are jobs that the college provides, but they don't pay that much. Is it very difficult for American students to get a part-time job in the city? I'm not looking for something fancy, just a waitress job or something, that will hopefully pay around 12k a year. (My parents are helping out with tuition, but I need to pay around half.)

(Also, someone mentioned it might not be legal for me to work. I hadn't considered that, but would appreciate it if someone would confirm or refute it.)

Answer 1

Students are able to work up to 20 hours a week during term time. I'm not familiar with Richmond International University - is it in Richmond itself? If so, Richmond is the opposite end of London from the City. As a student with no work experience and only able to work part-time, I should think you will have difficulty finding a job that pays you £12k a year gross, much less net. Unlike the United States, waitresses usually aren't allowed to keep their tips in the UK, and the tips are far less generous because restaurants levy service charges of 10 to 15 percent of the bill which the restaurant owner either pockets or divides up among all the servers and busses. And diners don't like paying two tips.

Answer 2

i have no idea. but i just had to answer you because i admire you so much for doing this. don't give up. if our whole tribe would move back to europe the melting pot experiment will be over at last. sick. go home girl go home!

Answer 3

not really, it's only you'd not tried your best!