Full-time college students don’t exactly have a lot of free time on their hands. When they’re not in class, they’re doing homework, studying, and trying to maintain a healthy social life.
But some studies show that most college students, as much as 70% of them, have to work, too.
Having a side job has a lot of benefits, such as teaching you discipline and time management, on top of the money you earn. It’s not always easy finding employers that are willing to be flexible and work around your schedule, though.
On the other hand, there are some jobs that are almost tailor-made for those furthering their education. If you’re going to school and you need to make a living, too, try one (or all) of these five side gigs that are perfect for any college student.
1. Photography
Did you take a few photography classes in high school? Or do you have a natural eye for the best lighting and angles in a shot?
If you’re skilled in the art of photography, you have a decent camera, and you’re interested in making extra money, this side gig is for you.
There are two main ways you can turn your love of taking pictures into a lucrative job: You can start a business, or you can sell your pictures online.
Starting a business can be as simple or complex as you want it. You’ll need a decent photo editing computer program and a good camera to get started. From there, build your reputation by offering discounted prices for photography sessions.
Volunteer to take photos at a friend’s big event. Offer a “Pet Day” where you take pictures of everyone’s pets for a small charge.
However, if your talent lies in shooting nature photos, you can always sell your pictures online. Some companies, like Shutterstock, will buy your pictures and offer them for purchase on their sites. If they sell, you may even get a commission.
2. Babysitting
It’s a tried-and-true pastime for high school and college students. Babysitting today looks a lot different than in the past, though.
Today’s sitters can make ten dollars an hour or more. As a college side job, it’s perfect because most parents need someone reliable to watch their kids after school gets out.
To make yourself more valuable as a babysitter, sign up for CPR courses and get certified through the American Red Cross training.
Sitters who have their own transportation and are willing to transport their children to and from activities can charge more. If you can help with homework, you’re even more appreciated.
3. Freelancing
Do you have a skill that you excel in, and you’d like to make some money doing it?
If your talent lies in any area, from artwork to writing, there’s probably a freelance gig out there for you. Sites like Upwork, Fiverr, and Freelancer are the perfect place to put your resume.
Clients visit these sites to post their “want ads.” Whether they’re in need of someone to edit their papers or a virtual assistant to handle their busy schedule, it’s all in one place.
You, as a freelancer, can skim the jobs, apply for any you’re interested in, and work at your convenience. It’s an easy way to make a little side money, and if you enjoy it, you might even be able to turn it into a career.
4. Housekeeping
You might think it’s no big deal, but if you’re passionate about keeping things neat and orderly, you have a talent you can maximize.
COVID-19 showed us the importance of cleanliness and hygiene, and now, cleaning services are in demand.
Personal homeowners with hectic schedules would prefer to pay someone to keep their house tidy. Businesses want someone to make sure their offices are germ-free for the next day’s customers.
Offer your cleaning and organizational services to fellow students. Make your own business cards to hand out to everyone you see.
In the meantime, learn everything you can about making homes more efficient and the best ways to clean. This article by Quarry Trail is a good place to start if you want to get some organizational tactics for small spaces.
5. Tutoring
You don’t have to be at the mechanical engineer level to be able to tutor someone. However, if you can handle rigorous subjects, those higher education courses pay more.
Check with your college to see if you can get paid to tutor your fellow students in subjects you’ve excelled in. If you’d rather stick with easier coursework, you can tutor online at sites like tutor.com.
You’ll find subjects from kindergarten through college. Choose the course you want to work in and pass the subject area exam. If you make it through the initial screening process, you can be tutoring and earning cash on your schedule.
Conclusion
Finding work as a college student doesn’t have to be a hassle. With these five side gigs, you can work around your schedule, doing things you enjoy.