The Side Hustle

As college students, we often find ourselves juggling homework, social life, finances, and sleep. It can be difficult to find a part-time job that fits into our schedules, let alone one that we enjoy! Enter: The Side Hustle.

A side hustle is a job taken in addition to full-time work. As a college student, school is a full-time job. Finding a side hustle is a great way to combine your interests with work, while also accommodating a limited time schedule. Thus we recommend considering what you’re passionate about, and pursue your interest as a side hustle.

A side hustle can include anything, but here are some ideas to get you started:

• Babysitting. Love children? There are lots of babysitting opportunities in New York City! Talk to families at your church or check out the TKC Babysitters Facebook page to start your babysitting network.
• Dog Walking. Good with dogs? Check out popular dog walking apps such as Rover or Wag and start getting paid to spend time with man’s best friend!
• Photography. Love to take photos? Start public social media pages for your work and advertise headshots, portraits, or landscapes opportunities!
• Give music lessons. Know how to play an instrument? Give private music lessons on your own schedule! You can advertise on Facebook, Craigslist, or word of mouth.

A word of caution: pursue your side hustle safely. Take proper precaution before going to a stranger’s residence to tutor them for the ACT, etc. Let a friend know where you’re headed, meet your client in a public space, or video chat them ahead of time to know them better. And if you ever feel uncomfortable, turn down the opportunity. Another gig will come along!

Whatever it is you’re passionate about – go out and do it! Your time in college is scarce, so use it to do something(s) you love.