With tuition fees, rent, food, books and other expenses, it can be difficult for students to make ends meet on a limited budget. However, with some creativity and effort, there are many ways for students to earn extra income while continuing their studies. Whether it's getting a part-time job, monetising a hobby, or finding paid internships, students have options to bring in cash and gain valuable skills at the same time. This article will explore ideas to help UK students earn money while in school, with tips on the best jobs, side gigs, and strategies to boost income. With smart planning and hustle, students can reduce money stresses and graduate with work experience as well as a degree.
On-Campus Jobs
One of the most convenient ways for students to make money is by working part-time jobs right on their university campus. On-campus jobs offer flexible scheduling around classes and exam times and often provide bonuses like free or discounted food if you work in a dining hall or cafe. However, while the university staff may already know you, you will still be required to complete a job interview and CV for first job.
Popular campus jobs include:
Library assistant - Help stack shelves, check books in and out, and answer questions. Library jobs are ideal for studious types who need a quiet space to work between classes.
Retail and food service - Campus bookstores, cafes, restaurants and shops frequently hire students for shifts in between classes or on weekends. Those with customer service skills tend to do well.
Office assistant - Campus departments often need admin help and will hire students to answer phones, file paperwork, do data entry and more.
Lab research assistant - Science students can look for campus jobs helping professors with research projects, conducting experiments, collecting data and managing lab materials. It provides valuable experience for science careers.
Resident advisor - Upper-year students may apply to be RAs in university dorms. Benefits include free room and board. You need to be social, responsible and able to advise homesick freshers.
Tutoring
Smart students can earn impressive rates by offering private tutoring services, whether helping school pupils or other university students who are struggling with certain subjects. Tutoring plays to students' academic strengths with flexible scheduling. Options include:
Tutor school students in your subject of expertise - Maths, English, sciences and languages are commonly requested. Advertise services on community boards, and local parent groups. Meet at libraries and charge £15-25/hour.
Tutor other university students - Offer group or 1-on-1 sessions covering difficult uni modules. Meet on campus and charge £20-40/hr, depending on subject complexity.
Tutor online - Use platforms like Preply to find virtual tutoring jobs teaching pupils or university students worldwide. A convenient way to earn around £15-30/hr from your dorm room.
Freelance Services
Freelancing is a broad category for using your skills and knowledge to complete paid projects on a flexible, short-term basis. With some research, students can find freelance gigs that align with their natural abilities and interests. Types of freelance jobs students can pursue include:
Content writing - Students with writing skills can research topics and write blogs, articles, product descriptions, and social media posts for various clients online.
Graphic design - Budding graphic designers can design logos, ads, flyers, brochures, posters, merchandise and more for small businesses, nonprofits, and student clubs. Build a visual portfolio of work samples. Charge around £10-25 per design project.
Web development - Tech-savvy students may freelance building websites, apps and other digital projects for clients. Offer services through freelance sites or locally through small business networks. Average project rates are £250-750.
Photography/videography - Students with an artistic eye can market their services by taking professional photos and videos for campus events, local businesses, weddings and other special occasions.
Translation - Multi-lingual students can provide document or website translation services to global businesses. Chinese, Arabic, Spanish, French, German and other languages are in high demand. Advertise niche language skills.
Internships
Internships allow students to gain real-world experience in a career field while earning money. Many companies provide paid internship programmes and are eager to bring in bright university students. Start researching potential internships early and be proactive in applying.
While being a full-time student keeps life busy, there are plentiful ways for clever students to supplement their income through part-time work. Finding a compatible job that fits your schedule and utilises your personal strengths is key. Whether employed on campus or around town, tutoring, freelancing, interning, or using other ideas from this article, UK university students can reduce financial strains through part-time work.
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