Going away to college can be one of the most rewarding times of your life.
It is one of the first steps towards becoming a truly independent adult, away from the comfort and confines of the home environment. Making new friends, enjoying new experiences and pursuing a career, are three of the highlights of a college lifestyle.
Unfortunately, there are also lowlights to the experience. One of them is running out of money midway through the semester.
While it is possible to take out a bank loan or credit card to see you through, or returning to the bank of mom and dad, there are better options available.
Whether you need a large cash injection or just a few extra dollars, here are some ideas to help you get through those difficult periods and avoid student debt.
#1 Get a Part-Time Job
Not only does this enable you to earn some much-needed money, but it also gives you valuable experience in the job market, and will be perfect for your resume.
There are many opportunities available to you, from nannying to working in the local supermarket. If you have a car, motorbike, or bicycle to hand, companies such as Deliveroo hire people to pick up and deliver takeaways from local restaurants. Using their app on your smartphone, you can let them know when you are available to work.
It is also worth handing out your resumes to local companies, especially if their business is linked to your studies.There will likely be a job board with available vacancies somewhere in your college, so be sure to have a look.
Alternatively, you could work from the comfort of your bedroom, and pick up some blogging work. There are companies out there looking for student related articles, so if you have a flair for writing, this could be a useful option.
#2 Sell Your Coursework
Put those countless hours of studying to good use, and help other students in need of academic assistance.
While you could do this on campus and offer tutoring to those who need it, there are websites such as Stuvia which allow you to upload your work online. You then determine your own prices and get paid through the website when other students buy your work.
You then determine your own prices and get paid through the website when other students buy your work.
#3 Take Online Surveys
Companies such as Swagbucks offer a reward program for completing surveys, watching videos and searching the web. They don’t pay very well but considering it only takes a few moments of your time, and that you are probably online a lot anyway, this is a quick and easy option.
They don’t pay very well but considering it only takes a few moments of your time, and that you are probably online a lot anyway, this is a quick and easy option.
#4 Mystery Shopping
This may sound like an exciting idea, no doubt conjuring up the notion of heading into a store in shades and a disguise. Sadly, it’s nothing of the sort.
Register with a company such as Marketforce and head into the store assigned to you. Take note of the products available and the attitude of serving staff members, then make a report and upload it to the hiring website.
This can even be a time-saving option as you can do your weekly shop at the same time.
So what are you doing to earn an extra income on the side while you attend college? Are you doing any of the ideas I’ve shared above or are you doing somethings else. Share your thoughts and ideas below.
Cheers!
