The college years are a time to expand your mind, your social circles, and your set of experiences. It’s also a time many of us spend stretching our wallet as thin as it can go. College is expensive. From textbooks to housing to all the little fees universities love to tack onto tuition, the bills can add up.
Hopefully, you have some support from your parents, a scholarship fund, or financial aid. But even with these resources, it can still feel overwhelming. That is why many students look for a part-time job that they can do while they are in school.
Read on for 9 job ideas that you can try out in college or beyond:
1. Waiting Tables
Becoming a server is one of the most common jobs that people get while in school. It is flexible enough to schedule around classes and has the potential for good money in tips.
According to a study conducted by the U.S. Center for Disease Control, “highly-rated slip-resistant shoes are effective in preventing food service worker injuries.” It’s important to protect yourself while on the job, even for a part-time position. If you do get a job in the food service industry, make sure to pick up a pair of slip-resistant shoes, such as the ones reviewed here.
2. Childcare
If you were a babysitter before college, you could easily transfer those skills to childcare work during school. Many universities have childcare programs available for professors, employees, and students who are parents. Those programs may be hiring. You should also reach out to families in the local community who may need a sitter.
3. Working at the Library
This is one of the best jobs that you can have as a student. Library jobs are often easy to learn and flexible in terms of scheduling. Chances are you’ll be allowed to study while you are at work. Good thing the library is quiet! If you need a lot of study time but still want to work, this could be a good match for you.
4. Barista
If you look around campus, you will probably notice that most students are getting by one cup of coffee at a time. Being a barista at a local coffee house is a great job for a student. You can work mornings and usually afternoons/evenings. Plus, you’ll probably get your hands on free coffee!
5. Freelance Writer
If you consider yourself a skilled writer, there are plenty of freelance writing positions that can be done remotely. Some of these are more technically-focused, like copywriting or transcription work. You may also be able to find creative work, like writing for a blog or an online magazine.
6. Tour Guide on Campus
If you love your campus and are a gifted public speaker, consider becoming a tour guide for your university. There will always be prospective students and their parents that want to visit the school. You can show them around, share your school’s history, and get your steps in, all while making money.
7. Teaching English Online
This is another flexible part-time job that many students pick up. All over the world, there are students in other countries that want to learn English. And some companies work to connect them with native English speakers such as yourself! The hours are often early, but the scheduling is flexible.
8. Residence Advisor
During their college years, some students become residence advisors (or R.A.’s as they are often called). R.A.’s live in the dorms that are usually reserved for first-year students. They help them adjust to school, engage them in social activities, and make sure they adhere to university housing policies. They also receive free housing as a part of their employment.
9. Recreation Assistant
If your campus has a sizable recreation facility and you have a background in fitness, this may be a good opportunity for you. If you are highly organized, you may work at the front desk and handle memberships. If you have experience in personal training, some schools have positions for that. If the facility has a pool, you could train to become a lifeguard or swim instructor.
For those that love to exercise, working at the gym is a great option.
Final Words
These are a few of the most common part-time jobs that students take on while pursuing their degrees. You may find something else that works with your schedule, skills, and resources. But at the end of the day, remember that your studies come first!