Mia Brooks
MC 301 Contributor/ Staff
It seems like all we hear about is the rising cost of tuition and in today’s economy, paying for college can be extremely difficult and expensive. Most students are forced to take out thousands of dollars in loans to help offset the cost of college while others skip school all together.
Although some students take on part-time and full-time jobs while in school there are others who are not able to work and not having a steady income in school can be hard.
As a college student, I know the struggle of being broke all too well but my struggle in college has also taught me creative ways to make money.
Just because you do not have a traditional nine to five doesn’t mean you have to be broke, all you have to do is figure out what your good at and get people to pay for it. Hence, the ‘hustle’. Making a little extra money on the side can also help you pay for tuition.
Here are some ways to make money as a college student practiced by students at Jackson State University:
1. Do hair!
Hair is probably the number one side hustle for college students, especially at HBCU’s. Most students do not have money to go to the hair salon, so finding someone on campus that can do their hair for a reasonable price is the next best thing. If you can braid or know how to work a curling wand, you’ve got yourself a business. All you have to do is build up your clientele, pass out some flyers and you’ll be on your way!
2. Be a nanny!
Who said your too old to baby sit? Baby sitting or nannying (if you like to get technical) is a great way to earn some extra cash. Get in touch with all your friends and family that have kids and let them know you are in the business of babysitting. Make sure you put together a kit with books and toys to entertain the kids so you are prepared whenever a job comes up.
3. Be a tutor!
Tutoring is a very lucrative business for college students because students always need help with their studies. There are many different subjects to tutor, from French to math, so find out what your good at and get to work. The best way to find clients is to simply talk to your classmates and ask them what subjects they need help with. You can also hand out flyers and cards to get exposure.
4. Sell your textbooks!
Do you have old textbooks from freshmen algebra you barely used just collecting dust in your closet? Of course, we all do! Instead of collecting dust, you could be collecting money. Textbooks can be painfully expensive and many students would love to get a break on them. Selling your friend’s old textbooks is a sure way to earn some extra cash.
5. Be an entrepreneur!
Are you a graphic designer, an excellent baker or good with your hands? You could turn these things into successful businesses. Starting your own business in college is probably more difficult than tutoring or doing hair, but luckily you have access to professors and other students who can use their talents and connections to help you build your brand.
There are many different ways to earn extra cash while in college. The days of only working a nine to five to get a paycheck are over. Put your gifts and talents to use while your getting your education. Who knows? You might end up being the next Bill Gates or Steve Jobs in the process.
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