When students enter college, it is the hope that they only have to worry about their studies, but this isn’t the case for everyone. Many college students had parents to help pay for their tuition and books, but were on their own for spending money, while others failed to get proper financial aid and had to cover all the costs of their education completely on their own. It’s hard to hold onto a regular job like retail, food service or delivery, so many students have turned to the odd side jobs to earn a little extra cash. Here are just a few side jobs some college students have admitted to having, according to The State Hornet.


Making Handmade Goods


Making and selling handmade items has been providing lucrative income to many people for several years, thanks to sites like Ebay and Etsy. Some college students have even turned it into a great side job they can do at home or in between classes. One such student was customizing cell phone cases with rhinestones and using outlets like Etsy, Ebay, Instagram, Craigslist, and even Facebook to sell them. She sold them from everyone to friends and family, to other college students and strangers. With each case going for over $50, it helped her pay for things she needed while in school.


Cleaning Animal Shelters


Another option that is far less glamorous and much more messy than making handmade crafts is by cleaning animal shelters. These types of jobs are those that only the most desperate people tend to go for. Many college students prefer working with animals, even cleaning up shelters, than the typical fast food or retail job. For them, they prefer the environment of the shelter to more mainstream part-time jobs, earning a decent living while still having enough time to attend classes and study.


Recycling Bottles and Cans


One of the oddest ways college students have earned money is by recycling bottles and cans. While it doesn’t earn a lot of money, it still gives college students a little extra spending money. They are saving bottles and cans they were already going to buy, such as soda cans and water bottles, and simply recycling them when they filled a few bags. They at least help buy meals, pay bills, or shop for essentials they need when living in a dorm.


While things like scholarships and financial aid often pay for tuition, books and even living expenses, it is rarely enough to cover everything a college student needs while away at school. It makes it hard to study without enough cash for a good meal or to buy essential things for your apartment. This is what has led college students to pick up some of these odd side jobs.