As we get deeper into 2023, you might be asking yourself how you want to maximize your time this year. While there’s nothing wrong with taking things slow, I understand the desire for productivity. January always inspires me to work harder and smarter, and to get more organized, as I’m sure it does to you, too. And with side hustles becoming a regular part of a lot of Gen Zers lives, you may be interested in putting all that work towards a second source of income with a side hustle.
If you’re stuck in a rut searching for ways to build your résumé, my advice to you is to utilize your resources. Finding job or internship listings can be overwhelming — especially if you’re looking for paid work, which doesn’t come easily for college students. There’s a number of free websites that can help you, from good ol’ LinkedIn to my personal favorite, Intern Queen. Make sure you keep your résumé, cover letters, online profiles, and any other relevant materials updated as you embark on your side hustle search. And remember: say “yes” to everything. (Besides any dangerous situations, obviously.) But every experience you gain is likely to benefit you in some way. You’ll never know if you don’t try.
If you’re looking for some inspiration on what sort of side hustle to focus on this year, here are some ideas.
- Start Your Own Shop.
-
In for 2023: supporting independent creators. Out for 2023: dropping tons of money on big, unsustainable businesses. Share your own designs on Etsy or Shopify this new year — and make some cash by doing so. Feeling creatively stifled? Then register for a class on Skillshare that might inspire your artistic genius. Once you subscribe to Skillshare, you’ll gain access to various interactive classes that’ll teach you how to operate a small business. If you want to polish your skills in crocheting, sewing, painting, or any other form of crafting, there’s a class for you.
- Become a Research Volunteer.
-
This may sound daunting, but trust me, it’s worth it. If your school is looking for volunteers for psychological studies, you might want to jump on that offer. Most researchers offer their participants some form of payment for their assistance. Whether that be money or an Uber Eats gift card, a win is a win either way.
- Tutor Students Online.
-
If you’re looking for remote side hustles, online tutoring is a good place to start. Platforms like Varsity Tutors and My Tutor make it easy to help students from the comfort of campus. If you prefer working in person, check to see if your school offers any tutoring services.
- Build Your Social Media Presence.
-
While it may take some time to cultivate a following, it’s better to keep trying than to never start in the first place. Anything goes on social media: You can dedicate an account to your passions in life, or just to snippets of life itself. Whether you choose to take a business or lifestyle approach to your social media accounts, TikTok and YouTube make it possible to share your voice with the world.
- Assist At A Literary Agency.
-
Lending your services to a literary agency is a great way to break into publishing and editing. From my personal experience, these types of positions have been very flexible, too. Agencies are always looking for an extra set of eyes to review their books, and best of all, busy college students can typically work remotely.
- Become A College Brand Ambassador.
-
Discounted goodies from companies? Um, sign me up. Aside from the monetary benefits, being a college brand ambassador can help you launch your career in marketing and media studies. According to Brand Champ, there are tons of big companies who offer this position to college students, with familiar names like Apple and Red Bull to promote.
- Start A Podcast.
-
If you’re a longtime podcast listener, now’s your chance to get behind the mic. You don’t need much to get started, other than a phone or digital recorder. Free platforms like Libsyn and RSS.com give aspiring podcasters the opportunity to get their stories out there. Once you attract a wider audience, you might get the chance to move your show to Spotify or Apple — and to get sponsors.
