10 side hustles to make extra cash for first-year university students

By Mbali · Apr 4, 2024
10 side hustles to make extra cash for first-year university students picture

As a first-year university student, you're likely experiencing the thrill of newfound independence and the challenges of managing your finances. With tuition fees, textbooks, and daily expenses looming over you, finding ways to earn extra cash becomes a priority. Fortunately, there are numerous side hustles tailored to first year students' schedules and skills. In this articles, you will find 10 side hustles to make extra cash as a first year university student.

 

10 side hustles to make extra cash for first-year university students

In today's economy having a side hustle is a MUST! have you seen prices? everything is quite expensive. To alleviate a burden of depending solely on your bursary and parents you can find ways to earn a bit of income to cover certain aspects of your university life such as going out for lunch with friends, buying new trendy fashion items, buying textbooks and stationery.

Here is a list of side hustles to make extra cash as a first year university student:

  1. Tutoring Services
  2. Freelance Writing
  3. Virtual Assistant
  4. Graphic Design
  5. Photography Services
  6. Delivery Services
  7. Take Online Surveys
  8. Sell products on campus
  9. Open an Online Store
  10. Fitness Instructor

 

1. Tutoring Services: Make use of your academic strengths by offering tutoring services to high school learners. Easy right? Now what's that one or two subjects you are good at? Is it Maths, Science, Accounting, Geography or Economics? After deciding on the subjects you want to tutor think of how you are going to offer the services. The best way to offer your services is online, YEP, offer online tutoring services to reach every student in different provinces in South Africa or your country.

 

2. Freelance Writing: If you have a way with words, consider freelancing as a writer. Websites like Upwork, Freelancer, and Fiverr offer many writing opportunities, from blog posts, copywriting and content writing gigs. Plus, you can work on your own schedule and sharpen your writing skills in the process. If you don't want to be a freelancer, you can offer all these services independently just ensure that you build your social media pages. 

 

3. Social Media Managing: Are you constantly scrolling through Instagram or TikTok? Put your social media skills to good use by offering social media management services to small businesses or influencers. Help clients grow their online presence, engage with their audience, and create compelling content. The truth is many businesses and entrepreneurs are in need of social media managers to help them be visible online and to get sales.

 

4. Graphic Design: Are you skilled in graphic design or have a gift for creating eye-catching visuals? Offer your services to local businesses, student organizations, or online clients looking for logos, flyers, or social media graphics. Platforms like Canva and Adobe Spark make it easy to showcase your portfolio and attract potential clients.

 

5. Photography Services: If you have a passion for photography and own a decent camera, consider offering photography services for events, portraits, or product shoots. Advertise your services on campus bulletin boards, social media, or local community groups to find clients willing to pay for your creativity. You can also sell your photos on stock image websites such as Shutterstock and Getty images

 

6. Delivery Services: With the rise of food delivery apps like UberEats, becoming a delivery driver is a flexible and lucrative option for students. You can choose your own hours, work as much or as little as you want, and earn money delivering food to customers. This side hustle applies if only you can drive and have a drivers license. 

 

7. Take Online Surveys & play games: Spend your free time participating in paid surveys and play games to earn daily cash. This side hustle is very saturated, so making money wont be a walk in a park. The most challenging part about this hustle is that, it is very difficult to find reputable websites that really pay. If you put in the work, research and do many surveys and play more games, you might actually make some extra cash. 

 

8. Sell Products on Campus: Start selling products to students on campus. You can sell in demand products that are needed by students. Check with your institution if they allow students to sell on campus or res, if selling is not allowed you can try opening an online store.

 

9. Open an Online Store: If selling on campus is a problem open an online store and start selling online. You can make deliveries via paxi or hand deliver to their door. The great thing about selling online is that you are going o attract students from other universities meaning that your market will not only be students in your university.  

 

10. Fitness Instructor: If you are passionate about fitness and enjoy leading others, consider becoming a fitness instructor. Whether it's teaching yoga, Zumba, or boot camp classes, you can find opportunities at local gyms, community centers, or even start your own fitness classes on campus.

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Found a side hustle that aligns with your skills, passion and university schedule? then go for it. Here's a tip though, ensure that your side hustle doesn't get in the way of your studies. Set your priorities straight, your studies first then your side hustle second. You need to learn to have a balance for the two. Choose a side hustle that is flexible, preferably a side hustle that will allow you to work online.

Below, I have listed pros and cons of having a side hustle as a first year university student. Go through them and weigh your options, you should get an idea of the good and the bad of side hustles. The cons should not discourage you because nothing in life comes easy. If it was easy everyone would be doing it.

 

Pros of having a side hustle as a first year university student

Financial Independence: Perhaps the most obvious advantage of having a side hustle is the ability to earn extra money. This financial independence allows students to cover expenses such as groceries, transportation, and leisure activities without solely relying on their parents or student loans.

Real-World Experience: Side hustles often provide valuable real-world experience that can complement academic studies. Whether it's freelancing, tutoring, or starting a small business, students gain practical skills like time management, customer service, and financial literacy that can't always be taught in a classroom.

Flexible Schedules: Unlike traditional part-time jobs, many side hustles offer flexible schedules that can easily accommodate a student's academic commitments. This flexibility allows students to prioritize their studies while still earning income on their own terms.

Networking Opportunities: Side hustles frequently involve interacting with various people, from clients to fellow entrepreneurs. These interactions can lead to valuable networking opportunities that may benefit students both during their university years and in their future careers.

Exploration of Interests: University is a time for exploration and self-discovery. A side hustle provides students with the opportunity to explore their interests and passions outside of their academic pursuits. Whether it's photography, graphic design, or event planning, a side hustle allows students to delve into areas they are passionate about.

Financial Literacy: Managing finances is a crucial skill that many young adults struggle with. A side hustle teaches students the importance of budgeting, saving, and investing, setting them up for financial success in the future.

 

Cons of having a side hustle as a first year university student

Time Management Challenges: Adding a side hustle to your already packed schedule of classes, social activities, and maybe even part-time work can be a recipe for overwhelm. Be honest with yourself about how much time you can realistically dedicate without sacrificing your studies, sleep, or mental well-being.

Impact on Academic Performance: Let's face it, your academic performance is probably your top priority in university. If your side hustle starts to negatively impact your studies, grades, or sleep schedule, it might be time to re-evaluate. Remember, your degree is the main investment, protect it!

Stress Overload: Juggling multiple commitments can be stressful, especially if you're new to the whole independence thing. Managing your time effectively is crucial, but don't underestimate the potential for burnout. Make sure you prioritize your well-being and have healthy coping mechanisms in place.

Social Sacrifice: Spending extra hours hustling might mean less time hanging out with friends, attending events, or exploring your new city. While a side hustle can offer valuable connections, don't forget to nurture your social life and maintain a healthy balance.

Hidden Costs: Don't forget to factor in potential hidden costs associated with your side hustle, like transportation, equipment, or online platform fees. Make sure the financial gain truly outweighs the investment.

 

While having a side hustle as a first-year university student can offer numerous benefits, there are also some drawbacks to consider. It's essential to weigh these cons against the pros to determine if a side hustle is the right choice for you among the demands of your academic and personal life. Remember, consistency and dedication are key to success in any side hustle. Choose one side hustle that align with your skills and interests, and start earning that extra cash! 

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