As a college student, I totally get the struggle to save money. Even with a part-time job, it always seems like I’m emptying my bank account for textbooks, meal plans, student aid, back-to-school clothes, and my Starbucks iced coffee addiction (I need it, okay?).
With my entrepreneurial spirit, I’ve always been intrigued by the idea of starting my own part-time hustle. However, picking one that serves my skills, passions, and education can be challenging. If you’re looking to get some extra money in your pocket, but aren’t sure where to start, here’s how to find the perfect side hustle, based on your college major.
Communications, English, history, & humanities
As a previous English major and current communication studies major, I know firsthand how often the students in these departments are pumping out essays 24/7. These degree programs come with tons of writing and research experience, so you’re bound to become an expert in composition, MLA, APA, AP Style, editing, and proofreading. So, if you’re studying communications, English, history, and/or the humanities, freelance writing might be a great side hustle for you! There are many ways you can provide paid writing services. Depending on your interests and areas of expertise, you can try:
- Blogging for small businesses
- Proofreading and editing academic essays
- Resume writing and editing
- Website copywriting
- Writing social media copy
- Writing articles for online publications
- Ghostwriting
Whether you choose one of these skills or dabble in a little bit of everything, starting your freelance writing business is pretty simple. First, you’ll want to compile a digital portfolio of previous writing samples. This can include college essays, research papers, articles, personal narratives, or blog posts. You can even use free hosting platforms, such as Wix or Squarespace. Personally, I use Wix to display my work.
Next, you can put yourself out there and find clients through freelance networking platforms. There are tons to choose from, including Fiverr, UpWork, Freelancer.com, and more. These sites provide a space for companies and professionals to directly connect with freelancers for specific services. You can create a profile that contains a professional bio and a link to your portfolio. Then, you’ll be able to access thousands of freelance job postings. You’ll be surprised how many businesses are in need of a good writer.
Education, psychology, & social scienceS
If you’re in a social science or education field, you’re all about human connection. You would definitely thrive in a business that requires empathy and care, such as nannying, babysitting, and tutoring — plus, there is always a demand for these services, so they make great side hustles.
Nannying and babysitting are awesome gigs because they are flexible. Families tend to seek child care during after-school and evening hours, which might work well with your college class schedule. In fact, since most young children go to sleep early, you could probably even get some homework and studying done on-the-job!
If you can’t find a babysitting or nannying job through personal referrals, there are many sites that will help you. You can create a profile and find gigs with:
If you want to spruce up your resume and experience, lots of families look for certifications such as CPR, first-aid, and water safety. American Red Cross provides resources to help you find certification classes in your area.
If you’re studying education, you can also consider virtual tutoring. This side hustle is another great way to gain experience in your field of study, and is also super flexible. With many children currently staying home to do school online, parents are searching for tutors more than ever. Lots of students are totally new to digital learning, so they definitely need that personal one-on-one time in specific subject areas.
Of course, there are lots of platforms that virtually connect students with tutors. You can try:
The best thing about this part-time job is that the options are endless. Students need help with just about any subject, whether it be English, history, math, SAT, ACT, writing, languages and more. No matter what your area of expertise is, someone is in need of your help! You can also post on your school’s job board or listserv to get in touch with current students who might be in need of tutoring.
Pre-med, biology, & food science
If you’re studying medicine, biology, chemistry, food science, or nutrition, then it’s time to get your heart racing. Try a side hustle that is all about wellness and staying active, like fitness instruction!
As a fitness instructor, you can teach classes like yoga, kickboxing, spinning, water aerobics, cardio, pilates, and much more. You don’t have to commit full-time; you can totally work around your school schedule and only teach a few classes a week, which is why it’s such a great side gig.
In fact, being a wellness or fitness instructor can even help with time management. Studying within the STEM field is super time-consuming, with tons of studying and research, so teaching fitness classes can be an efficient way to take a break from the books and make some money. Your exercise and money-making needs will be combined into one time slot.
Becoming a fitness instructor does require certification, which can take months to recieve. However, the courses can typically be done virutally and at your own pace. You can find an accredited certification program online.
You can find instructor jobs by:
- Applying to teach or train at your campus gym or recreational center
- Checking with local fitness clubs, YMCAs, spas, resorts, and community centers
- Auditioning with franchises like OrangeTheory, SoulCycle, Planet Fitness, or Pure Barre
I totally get that starting a side business as a full-time college student can be super intimidating. However, chances are, your education and major alone make you more prepared and capable than you think! Launching a side hustle based on your studies and interests is way more rewarding than a typical part-time job; not only will you make a bit of extra cash, but the hope is that you’ll actually enjoy what you do. In fact, your side hustle might even give you experience that will land you a job right after graduation, or even grow into a full-time career on its own!