I know in my title I said as a commuter student, but anyone could do these things, these are just a few ways I, as a commuter student, have been able to stay in the black. Especially after those pesky tuition bills have been paid.
- Lyft Delivery, GrubHub, DoorDash
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While you’re on campus waiting for your next class, you might as well make some money by delivering the one thing all college students want, but are too lazy to get: food. College campuses are good places for apps such as Lyft, GrubHub, and DoorDash and the best part is you won’t have to drive all that far and you can pick and choose the orders you accept.
- CoinOut
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I like this app a lot because unlike other receipt scanning sites you can actually make money from this one. All you have to do is scan your receipts (that are inevitably piling up) and you’re all set. Plus if you invite your friends you can both get extra cash. The best part is you can choose to receive your money through PatPal, a Gift Card, or your savings can go straight to the bank.
- ShopKick
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Similarly to CoinOut you use this app to get rewards from your previous purchases, however this one rewards you with gift cards. Now not everyone likes gift cards, but they can prevent you from spending your money on random things because its specific to certain stores, which can help you become more money savvy.
- House-sit / Pet-sit
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Is sitting in the union and random buildings between classes starting to get boring? Do you need a quieter more relaxing place to study? Well, even as a commuter student, you can run home quick and study. Not your own home of course, but one you get paid to go to. You’re already in town, so stop by a house before, after, or in between classes to water some plants, walk some dogs, and study.
- Sell Your Stuff
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There are a lot of apps out there where you have to meet people to sell your stuff and those that don’t require meet-up require annoying shipping costs. At first I didn’t really like the apps where you have to meet with people because you have to find a time, place, and find a complete stranger. Then I realized that on campus is a great place to meet up to exchange your used goods for cash. It’s public, is familiar, and most people know where the local college campus is. All you have to do is bring your items to school with you when someone wants to make a purchase from you.
Just know that if you’re looking for ways to make money without a lot of effort, there’s a lot of scams out there. Trust your gut or ask a friend for advice.