The college life can be amazing because of the new friends, personal development, and experiences that one can gain during those years. Let’s face it—being a student can also mean being wallet-less! Having a side hustle could potentially relieve some of the burdens whether it is paying the tuition fee, spending money for daily necessities, or having some cash for fun-filled weekends. Starting a small business doesn’t require a lot of money either.
Why Having a Side Hustle is Important While in College?
- Side hustles allow one to cultivate independence – You do not have to depend on your parents for every tiny budget. A side hustle can take care of a good chunk of your daily needs, give you some pocket money, and even assist you in saving for your plans!
- Gain hands-on experience – Businesses help you gain new skills that you will not find in the classroom; such as marketing, communication and public relation skills, finance and time management skills.
- Work on your own schedule – Another advantage is time flexibility. Business is not like a part-time job because you can choose when you would like to work. You can choose to work after your classes or during exam periods.
- Allows for more extensive networking – Interacting with clients and other collaborators and brand managing gives you exposure and experience that assists in opening the door for multitude of opportunities for the future.
- Opportunity to Expand into a Full-Time Job – A number of corporations began as modest university endeavors. Who knows? Maybe your part-time business venture will evolve into your ideal job!
Here are some no or low cost business ideas that anyone can try:
- Blogging & Vlogging : For those passionate about writing or video creation, pick your favorite area whether its fitness, travel or even tech and start sharing. With just a computer and internet, anyone can get started.
- Freelancing: Graphic Design, Writing, Coding: If you’re an expert in graphic design, writing, or computer programming, there’s an array of clients to accept freelance work on Fiverr, Upwork, Freelancer etc. With website or app developing, design and content writing on the rise, you can create a portfolio and start earning immediately!
- Social Media Management: Social media is a necessity for personal brands or businesses and many lack the creativity to capitalize on it. With strong knowledge of video and photo editing on platforms like TikTok, Instagram and Facebook, local businesses can easily help teach you the ropes while you boost their online presence.
- Tutoring & Teaching Online: Having solid grasp on a complicated subject? With one on one tutoring sessions or online classes geared toward students or fellow college attendees, you will make profit while teaching at the same time.
- Drop shipping Business: Managing inventory is no longer an issue when you run an online store. You won’t even need to stock up on products due to dropshipping. Suppliers that partner with Shopify and WooCommerce will manage shipping and at the same time, you would be able to set up an online store.
- Home-Based Food Business (Tiffin Service, Baking, or Cooking Classes): Are you passionate about cooking? You could easily set up a tiffin delivery service which caters to busy professionals and students. Another excellent way to supplement your income can be through baking cookies and cakes for special occasions. You could always opt not to sell food, and instead, teach cooking classes over the internet.
- Handmade Crafts & Art: If creating jewellery, painting or designing home decor excites you, then there is an opportunity to sell them on Instagram, Etsy or Facebook Marketplace. Handmade goods are becoming highly desired and this gives you a chance to create something and turn it into something profitable.
- Photography & Videography: If you have an eye for capturing beautiful moments and a camera ready, you can provide photography services for college events, birthdays or product photography for small brands. Alternatively, your photos can also be sold on stock image sites like Shutterstock.
- Review Marketing: You can promote people’s products and services or refer them on sites you love for a commission for each sale made through affiliate marketing programs. For example, Amazon Associates Program, Flipkart Affiliate Program or niche focused affiliate programs. All you need is a b
- Organising and supervising events: This can be a lucrative venture if you enjoy planning events for colleges, parties, or concerts. Begin modestly with birthday celebrations, college parties, and modest business gatherings, then increase as you gain more experience.
- Thrift and Reselling Stores: Through Facebook, Instagram, or websites like Poshmark and OLX, you can purchase fashionable used clothing, accessories, or books to resell online.
- Fitness & Yoga Training: Do you enjoy fitness, Zumba, or yoga? Work as a personal trainer or teach online fitness courses to working professionals and students.
- Ironing and Laundry Services
For busy students and working professionals, laundry probably isn’t high on the priority list. Consider offering a paid pick-and-drop laundry service to students in your campus hostel or on their block.
A side-hustle in college isn’t just about earning some extra dollars—it can lead to building something of real value that may change your future. Choose an idea, start small, and carry out your plan to gain financial independence. Who knows, your college side-hustle might just become your full-time gig and passion.
Blog By:
Kajal Kanwar
Assistant Professor
Biyani Girls College