Who says you can’t nail your exams whilst also boosting your bank balance? Whether you’re looking to fund your next adventure, save up for a rainy day, or just explore new interests, there’s a side gig out there that fits perfectly around your academic schedule. Here’s how to turn your free time into cash and make the most of your student experience!
Freelancing:
Got a knack for writing, design or coding? Why not use the skills you’re learning whilst studying by diving into freelancing. Sites like Upwork and Fiverr let you connect with clients who are looking for your expertise. Set your own rates and hours and work from your bed or the nearest coffee shop, whilst also building a portfolio that’s sure to impress future employers.
Tutoring:
If you’ve gotten this far, you must be at least half-decent at what you’re studying, right? Undoubtedly there are other students who could use your help in your speciality; whether that’s fellow uni students perhaps struggling with an additional module to their course, or high school pupils with exams coming up and a subject they just can’t quite grasp. Check out Tutor.com or the campus job board to get started, look for those requesting tutors in Facebook groups, or reach out to your old school and offer your services. It’s a great way to make some extra cash whilst also making a huge difference to someone else’s education!
Gig Economy:
In this day and age, there are numerous flexible jobs which are often in high demand. It might be delivering with Just Eat, or dog walking in your local neighbourhood. If you can play an instrument, try busking, or perhaps run errands through apps like Rover or TaskRabbit. These gigs learn you earn cash on your own schedule, so you can work around your classes and study sessions.
Small-business owner:
Turn your creative flair into cash by selling handmade goods or digital art. Platforms like Etsy are great for selling your products, and in the digital age of social media, it’s never been easier to advertise your creations. Believe me, there’s a niche for everyone out there, from custom jewelry to unique prints, starting your own makeup brand or a pick n’ mix sweet business! Bonus points if you promote your products on TikTok Shop and Live.
Social Media:
We get it. Being an “influencer” is embarrassing, or whatever. Or so they’ll have you believe. But what’s embarrassing about gaining some extra cash doing something you love? Maybe you’ve already got a bit of a following and want to start earning commissions on products from TikTok shop, or you could look into becoming a UGC (User-Generated Content) creator and film and edit videos for brands without even having to post the products on your own page. Benefits: working from home, on your own timescale, while getting paid and sent free products. Sure we can’t all be Molly-Mae, but if everyone else is doing it, really you’re missing out if you’re not monetising on social media.
Selling Your Clothes:
This is a time-old classic. But people still can’t be bothered to do it half the time and opt to trade your old outfits into the charity shop instead. My advice is to think of it like you’re a small business owner and make believe a little bit. Buy some nice bags, maybe even a thank you sticker. I’ve personally had great success with Vinted. In fact, in January during some time off over Christmas, I managed to make a couple of hundred pound off of selling unwanted clothes on Vinted, plus it gave me something to do. It can be a bit of a hit or a miss, but search “tips for selling on Vinted” into TikTok and with a bit of luck, you might make a few extra bucks whilst also clearing your room.
