And How to Impress Those Hiring You
College students, regardless of their location, age, or field of study, all share the same thing: a need for solid, flexible job options that pay well enough to help support their studies. Whether you just need something part-time to help pay rent or you’re paying your whole way with full-time work, here are some great job options for you, as well as some helpful advice on how to make sure you get hired.
Babysitting
Babysitters work almost exclusively nights and weekends, which just so happens to be the time that most college students are free. Most babysitters get to name their own hourly rate, and babysitting allows for a lot of downtime for studying and homework. It’s a low-stress, high-yield part-time job that’s perfect for college students.
An On-Campus Job Associated with Your College
Working an on-campus job is a great way to earn some money and network. Some examples of jobs to look for include teaching assistant, tour guide, library monitor, and tech support. These jobs are more likely than off-campus jobs to work with your class schedule.
[Editor Ed Lawrence note: My on-campus job at Boston University was working at the Office of The Registrar. Among the perks was the ability to see my grades before they were officially released. After I graduated, I was hired by the university full-time and went to grad school. Among the perks of working full-time for the university were free courses! So, I got my MBA at a discount. After graduation, my first job was for a computer company that installed computer systems at small colleges. So, my on-campus work was a huge factor for my career.]
Sharing Economy Gig
While jobs in the so-called “sharing economy” don’t always provide the kind of stability that full-time workers seek, they do offer extreme flexibility and opportunities to make quite a bit of money. The prime example, of course, is a driving gig like Uber or Lyft. But there are other, app-based jobs that you can do as well, including dog walking and grocery delivery.
Freelancing
Becoming a freelancer is a great way to use your skills to earn some income. Simply create a profile on an online job board and search for available jobs. You can offer web design, administrative, virtual assistant, and blog writing services—you name it!
Starting Your Own Online Business
If you are crafty and have art to sell, consider starting your own side business selling products on Etsy or a comparable site. All you need is a solid website to sell other types of products and services as well. It all depends on what marketable skills you have, but it’s a solid option. Another popular option for college students is a clothing business utilizing dropshipping, which allows you to sell retail without having to keep inventory. To set yourself up for success, make sure you start out your new venture properly. This involves some business basics, like choosing a catchy name, registering your business, making a practical budget, and creating a business plan.
It’s a good time to follow the KISS (Keep It Simple Stupid) rule! For your name, just pick something unique and applicable to your business. Then simplify the registration process by partnering with a service like Zen Business. You can use software for your budget and a template for your plan, and then you’re ready for your first customer!
Tutoring
Once again, flexible hours are key here. What’s more, tutors also set their own rates, and you can even work with a tutoring agency that can help connect you with clients. You’ll simply need to choose whether you want to work with elementary, middle or high school students.
How to Land a Solid College Job
Deciding what you want to do to make money is the easy part. Landing a job that requires you to impress someone is tougher. Be sure to heed these tips:
● You need an eye-catching resume. Employers see a lot of applicants, and to get in the door you need to stand out. If you aren’t sure what a standout resume looks like, take a look at some resume examples to model yours after.
● Be flexible. Being able to work nights and weekends is a plus for most employers.
● Dress for success. Inquire about the position in person, and if you make it to the interview process, be sure to look the part.
● Go above and beyond to know about the position you’re seeking. Nothing impresses a hiring manager more than a job candidate who took the time to research the company and prepare for their interview.
You’re on your way! Working through college is a great way to avoid taking out too many student loans, give yourself some extra cash when you need it most, and build marketable job experience for when you graduate.
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