How to Make Money in College: Practical and Achievable Ways for Students
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As a college student, it can be difficult to work and attend school at the same time. When it comes to jobs, most students don’t know where to look or how to even start, which begs a very common search, “How to make money in college.” You are not alone for wanting to learn more, we are here to answer that question.
College is not cheap. These practical and achievable ways of making money in college will provide you options on how you can cover your tuition, living expenses, personal expenses and more. There are various opportunities to explore! No complicated jargon—just straightforward advice and resources to help boost your bank account and ease your financial burden.
WITH THAT SAID, HERE IS HOW TO MAKE MONEY IN COLLEGE: PRACTICAL AND ACHIEVABLE WAYS FOR STUDENTS!
Table of Contents
For which of you, desiring to build a tower, does not first sit down and count the cost, whether he has enough to complete it? Otherwise, when he has laid a foundation and is not able to finish, all who see it begin to mock him, saying, ‘This man began to build and was not able to finish.’
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PART-TIME JOBS
How to Make Money in College: Part-Time Jobs
Working a part-time job is the most practical way to make money. There are opportunities available to you on and off campus. Here are ways you can seek out a part-time job:
Seek Out Part-Time Jobs Through financial aid office
Financial Aid Office
Request information on the available work-study programs from your financial aid office. Federal Work-study offers students with financial need to earn money to help pay for their education.
Seek Out Part-Time Jobs Through Campus Human Resources Department
Human Resources Department
Contact your campus human resources department to request information on departments (e.g. library, health, tech) that are hiring on campus.
You can also contact each department related to your studies, or that appeal to you, to request job opportunities. Numerous departments have job slots specific for students and are flexible in scheduling, so take the time to seek them out.
Seek Out Part-Time Jobs Through Walk-Ins
Walk-Ins
Pretty old school, but you can easily walk into any place of interest to request for job availability/job opportunities.
Most places that are in need advertise on their front door, but some do not.
The worst answer you will get is a no, don’t be afraid to take the initiative.
Seek Out Part-Time Jobs Through Online Job Search Engines/Platforms
Online Job Search Engines/Platforms
There are online platforms like Indeed, GlassDoor, and ZipRecruiter that are specifically for job search.
There are hundreds of local businesses that are looking for candidates, which means you could easily find your next job there.
Also, publishing your resume on those platforms will open the door to companies who are actively offering jobs. You just might be the perfect candidate hiring managers are seeking and be offered a job without you even needing to apply. I have personally found literally all my jobs on Indeed.
If you need help in writing your resume, we have a guide that can help you craft an exceptional one: How to Write a Resume for the First Time.
Seek Out Part-Time Jobs Through Career Fairs
Career Fairs
Your university may have career fairs during a certain time of the year. There are also local career fairs that you can research online. Be sure to check them out to explore job opportunities that may be related to your future profession/career.
Freelancing
How to Make Money in College: Freelancing
Tutoring
How to Make Money in College: Tutoring
If you excel in a particular subject, offer tutoring services to fellow students. You can charge by the hour and help others while earning money.
There are also opportunities to offer your tutor services virtually, so be sure to look online.
Gig Economy
How to Make Money in College: Gig Economy
Sign up for gig economy apps like Uber, Lyft, or food delivery services (e.g. DoorDash).
You basically make your own schedule, which is why these gig economy services are incredibly popular.
Not only is it flexible, but you also control your daily pay by working more, working less, only taking high tips etc.
Sell Unwanted Items
How to Make Money in College: Sell Unwanted Items
Declutter your living space and make some cash by selling unused items online through platforms like eBay, Facebook Marketplace, Mercari or Poshmark. It is amazing how much money people can make by selling their old stuff online.
Make Money Online
How to Make Money in College: Make Money Online
This generation is social media and online saturated. There are hundreds of ways you can earn an income online.
Everything takes time and requires hard work, but if you continue to be consistent, you will be rewarded. These are only a few examples and resources for making money online:
Make Money Online: ACX Narrator
ACX Narrator
If you have the right equipment, or are willing to purchase the right equipment, you can land a job being an ACX narrator for amazon’s books.
You do not have to be a top notch voice actor, you just have to be confident enough in your ability to create engaging and dynamic voice recordings for the books you want to narrate for.
You can earn thousands of dollars through ACX if you are willing to put in the time and energy. ACX also has other opportunities available, so be sure to check them out.
Need-to-Know's for a Successful Job Interview
This is everything you need to know for a successful job interview! No matter what job your are pursuing, applying for, these tips and insights are universal. Use these to get you a job fast!
Make Money Online: Dropshipping
Dropshipping
Dropshipping, you are the merchandiser (the middle man) selling products directly from wholesalers or manufacturers to consumers. It can be automated or manual.
Dropshipping is not fast cash. You do need to commit a lot of time to earn a single dollar, but in the long run it can be worth it. You can build a business through dropshipping and earn a living if you are disciplined and committed. It is most definitely not for the faint hearted.
Here are some great YouTubers that provide tutorials for and experiences in Dropshipping. They are also successful entrepreneurs who help their audience achieve financial freedom, just as they did.
Brian Jung : Dropshipping Tutorial 2023
Sara Finance : Dropshipping in 6 days
Baddie in Business : Dropshipping Tutorial 2023
Make Money Online: Etsy
Etsy
If you are crafty or have a skill that you can use to sell a product or service, Etsy is for you!
You can create and sell templates, spreadsheets, drawings, clothing, and more that are digital or physical.
Etsy has millions of customers, which means with the right product or service, you will not fail to make a sale.
This too is not a fast cash method, it requires time and lots of work. But, with discipline and commitment you can succeed and grow a profitable business.
These YouTubers have grown their business through Etsy and have succeeded in making thousands of dollars! Check out their tutorials and other informational videos.
Dina Lu : Digital Templates Etsy Tutorial
Heather Studio : Print on Demand Etsy Tutorial
Kate Hayes : How to Make Money on Etsy
Internships and Co-ops
How to Make Money in College: Internships and Co-ops
Look for paid internships or co-op programs related to your field of study. These not only provide income but also valuable work experience which is needed for expanding your resume and skills.
Babysitting or Pet Sitting
How to Make Money in College: Babysitting or Pet Sitting
These are very common. Babysitting or pet sitting for families in your area can be a flexible and rewarding way to earn money. Finding who to baby or pet sit for can be challenging if you don’t have family members in need of the service. With that said, you could advertise to friends, family friends or on your social media.
Online Surveys and Market Research
How to Make Money in College: Online Surveys & Market Research
Campus Ambassador Programs
How to Make Money in College: Campus Ambassador Programs
Many companies offer campus ambassador programs that pay students to promote their products or services on campus.
Some companies you can investigate are Amazon Prime, Clinique, and Pretty Little Thing.
Seasonal Work
How to Make Money in College: Seasonal Work
During breaks, look for seasonal work opportunities, such as retail positions during the holiday season or lifeguarding in the summer.
Seasonal work requires no commitment throughout the year. Your break is the perfect time to earn some extra money to pay for the next semester or pay off some school loans.
Scholarships and Grants
How to Make Money in College: Scholarships and Grants
Take advantage of scholarships and grants! There are hundreds that are available to you, free money is far better than no money. You just need to put in a little work and thousands of dollars can be in your bank account. So, don’t forget to search for them and apply! They will help reduce your financial burden while pursuing your degree.
How can a college student make money with little time?
How can a college student make money with little time?
In this article of practical ways of making money in college, Freelancing, Seasonal Work and Flexible Part-Time jobs are a few of many ways to make money with little time.
Freelancing, you create your own schedule. The most challenging parts of freelancing are finding clients and marketing your service, but once you have those two, you could be earning more than you would in a part-time job.
Seasonal Work is another way you can make money with little time as a college student. Since most students have little to no academic commitments during the summer and winter, seasonal jobs are the perfect way to earn some cash. The greatest benefit is, you don’t need to commit to working that job during any other time of the year. Seasonal jobs can be part-time or full-time, it all depends on what you are searching for.
Flexible Part-Time Jobs are available locally and remotely. There are thousands of options. It is important to research each potential job’s business scheduling needs (e.g. morning, afternoon, evening shifts), and ask yourself if you can commit to it. If yes, apply. If not, don’t apply. Communication with the company or hiring manager is key for understanding their scheduling routine, or for requesting a flexible schedule at the time of your application/interview. It is best to be transparent with your desires for scheduling at the very beginning to avoid wasting your time and theirs. Some examples of employers that offer flexible scheduling and short shifts are Starbucks, Hollister, Other Retail and Food Service.
Gig Economy Services like UberEats and DoorDash are great for students with little time to work a job. You create your own schedule. The only challenge is, a fair amount of money is not guaranteed. Sometimes you will need to commit hours to receive an amount you are satisfied with. If you want to make a quick buck with one delivery, this is perfect for you. If you are looking to make a large amount of money to pay for your school without sacrificing a lot of time to this service, this is not for you. It is not the most sustainable source of income, it is more of a side hustle.
Remember, finding the right money-making opportunity for you might take some trial and error. It’s essential to establish balance between work and academics to ensure your college experience is fulfilling and successful. With determination and these practical tips, you can make money in college without sacrificing your grades or social life. Here’s to a financially savvy college journey!
love, Jas Joy
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