When I was in high school, I wanted to become more financially independent. I still rely on my parents' money sometimes, but I have my own money that I use as well.

Here are some easy ways to make money in college with a side hustle.

Part-Time Jobs

Most colleges have lots of part-time jobs. Whether it's working the desk in the library or doing administrative work, there is always a position for you. Consider two things when you're looking for a part-time job: what do you want to do and what are you good at. I did graphic design in high school, so I sought out jobs that involved graphic design. Now, I work in my school library's marketing department, making graphics and writing social media copy. I also wanted to work in the library; it's been my dream on-campus job since I was in high school. This job was perfect for me!

If you're looking for on-campus jobs, check with your career center. They will have some tips about openings. Some universities also use job search platforms to post on-campus part-time roles. My university uses Handshake.



Also, ask your professors and staff members if they know about any opportunities. I'm also working in the admissions department because I knew one of the admissions staff. People can and will vouch for you. All you need to do is ask!

You don't have to work on-campus, though. You can also look for jobs off-campus. For example, one of my friends works at a restaurant near campus.

Looking for part-time work is all about being in the right place at the right time. Be patient, and you'll find something great!

Freelance Work

You can also be a freelancer. For example, I write for Quatromoney's Good Math blog (They are looking for more bloggers, so check out this). One of my friends is an artist, and she makes felt pins. Another friend capitalized on the COVID-19 pandemic and makes custom masks. With freelance work, find what you're good at and figure out how you can market yourself. Don't be worried if you start small. Keep working on small projects, and you'll grow in no time.

Participate in Research Studies

One of my favorite ways to gain a little money on the side is to participate in research studies. I've gotten Amazon gift cards and even an annual subscription to Headspace as compensation for participating in various studies. Keep an eye out for flyers and emails from your university. There's always some sort of study happening.

If you want to do shorter studies, consider joining Prolific or Mechanical Turk. Both sites pool possible research participants. I'm a part of Prolific. Even though the pay is low, over time, the money builds. Since I started back in the summer, I've participated in 137 studies and earned $105. Sometimes you can even earn bonuses! Most of the studies only take 5 minutes or less, so I usually do 1-2 studies a day, depending on how many are on the platform.

With part-time work, freelancing, and paid research participation as side hustles, I've taken to become more financially independent. At the end of the day, find what works for you.

Wren Lee

Student Blogger

Wren Lee (they/them/theirs) is a storyteller, designer, and activist using the mediums of human-centered design, film, social media, and graphic design to impact social change, especially for LGBTQ and Asian American Pacific Islanders. They are exploring the intersection of design, film, technology, and human rights.