.png "The Learning Odyssey")
Money doesn't grow on trees, but it does seem to come from thin air when your student loan disbursement arrives at the start of the semester. But, let's face it: life at college is often expensive and that money doesn't always last as long as we'd like. That's why it may be a good idea to get a part-time job while in school.
You may think that it's impossible to find the time or energy to work while in school, but don't worry there are plenty of jobs out there that fit around class timetables and assignments. In this article, we'll dive into some of the best part-time jobs for students so you can make extra money without sacrificing too much of your time or energy.
Campus Jobs: Easy Work-Study Positions
One of the best options for earning money as a college student is to get a part-time job on campus. Most universities offer work-study positions, which are typically easier to get than jobs off-campus. Plus, there are flexible hours and the convenience of work being a short walk away from classes or your dorm.
Common work-study opportunities include:
Working in the library
Tutoring other students
Assisting professors with research projects
Helping out in cafeterias or other campus dining establishments
Being an office assistant at a university department or program
Taking on a student staff position at the recreation center or gymnasium.
Take note that many of these positions might require you to have specific skillsets, so make sure to read through the job description and qualifications carefully before applying. It's also wise to look ahead and plan ahead if you can starting your job search earlier can help make sure you snag the most desirable shifts!
Freelancing: Using Your Skills to Make Money
Freelancing has become increasingly popular, especially as more and more companies are utilizing remote teams. And why not? It offers a great way to make some extra money while maximizing flexibility. Plus, you can use the skills that you already have to make cash.
Whether you’re a whiz at design or able to write compelling copy, finding freelance work is easier than ever. You can look for gigs on freelancing platforms like Upwork or Fiverr or post your services on job boards like Glassdoor and Indeed. Another option is to create profiles on social media platforms like Instagram and LinkedIn so potential clients can find you if they’re interested in your services.
You can also connect with professors, supervisors and colleagues from past jobs who may need help with projects or tasks that require your specific skill set. By capitalizing on the connections you already have, you might just be able to land more steady work with higher pay than the average freelance gig pays.
Ridesharing: Driving for Uber or Lyft in Your Spare Time
You may not realize it, but ridesharing is a great way to make some money while attending college. You can drive for Uber or Lyft in your spare time, and there are a few reasons why it’s an especially attractive option for students:
Flexibility
Ridesharing offers a lot of flexibility which makes it ideal for students who have busy schedules. There are no minimum hours you need to commit to, so you can set your own schedule and work as much (or as little) as you want. Plus, you don’t need to have any special skills or qualifications—all you need is a valid driver’s license and some spare time.
Earnings
Ridesharing pays out relatively well too. According to Uber, the average driver earns around $19 per hour after expenses. And the more rides you do, the more money you're likely to make. So if you're looking for an easy way to make some extra cash while attending college, ridesharing might be just the right option for you.
To get started with ridesharing:
Sign up with Uber or Lyft online
Download their app and submit the necessary documents
Go through their onboarding process (which includes getting a background check and completing their training materials)
Start driving and earning money!
Online Surveys: Sharing Your Opinions for Cash
You can make money from home too by taking online surveys! Taking surveys is one of the easiest ways to make money. All you have to do is sign up for a survey site, fill out a profile about yourself, and then wait for surveys to come your way.
Benefits of Taking Surveys
Taking surveys can be a great way to make some extra money without having to leave the house. Plus, you can do them pretty much whenever you have time—on the bus, in your lunch break, even while watching TV.
Survey sites also often offer additional opportunities for you to earn more. This can include mystery shopping, focus groups or product testing. Pay varies depending on the site and how long it takes you to complete a survey or task some companies offer cash incentives or gift cards as rewards.
So if you’re looking for an easy way to make some extra cash while at college, check out some of the popular survey sites on the web today!
Website Testing: Getting Paid to Provide Feedback
Another option for making money in college is to get paid to test websites. Not only is this a great way to make extra cash, but it also helps you sharpen your tech skills and stay up-to-date on the newest web trends.
Website testing platforms like UserTesting provide real feedback from real people, which helps companies improve the design, usability, content, and overall performance of websites and mobile applications. As a website tester, you'll be asked to complete a set of tasks like navigating webpages and completing forms then you provide your thoughts about the experience.
UserTesting pays testers anywhere from $10 to $15 for each test they complete. Plus, you get to keep the product or service after you test it! Tests usually take between 10 – 20 minutes each and payments are issued via PayPal within 7 days after a test is completed.
So if you’re looking for an easy part-time job that allows you to flex your tech muscle while making extra money, give website testing a try it's definitely worth checking out!
Tutoring: Helping Other Students for Profit
If you're good at something, and it happens to be a school subject, consider tutoring other students who are less able with the same material. Tutoring can be a great way to make money while at college, and likely one of the easiest ways to make money while you study.
Plus, it gives you an opportunity to help other students out. Tutors provide one-on-one support or group sessions depending on the needs of the student, and you get to choose who, when and where your tutoring takes place. It also allows you some degree of freedom as you're able to set your own rates for tutoring services and arrange your own schedule for tutoring sessions.
Some of the benefits of being a tutor include:
Meeting students from different backgrounds
Understanding teaching styles, different ways of communicating concepts
Helps gain experience and build your resume
Make your own hours
Flexible working locations - online or in-person
Develop subject expertise
Conclusion
College can be expensive, but having a part-time job aside from your studies is a great way to make money and gain experience. It’s important to do your research to find the best job for you, as each job is unique and can offer different benefits.
From working in a library or tutoring to teaching classes and doing freelance work, there are plenty of opportunities to make extra money while studying. You’ll learn new skills, build your resume, and gain valuable experience that will help you in your career. With the right job, you can make money at college and enjoy the freedom that comes with the extra income.