3 Unique Ways to Make Extra Money in College

Attending college is expensive and taking a full load of classes can make it difficult to find a part-time job opportunity that fits with your schedule. Luckily, there are some flexible work options that fit with your schedule and can help bring in some extra cash.

Here are 3 unique ways to make extra money in college:

Be a Brand Ambassador

If there was one thing I wish I knew about when I was in college, it would be about working as a brand ambassador. I have worked as a brand ambassador for the past three years and have made easy money and worked with high-level brands like Starbucks, Petco, Columbia Sportswear, Nike and more. A brand ambassador is someone that works events, concerts, sporting gigs and the like. They are often wearing branded t-shirts and are giving out free things. I remember seeing many brand ambassadors when I was in college, but I had no idea where to find work like that.

It wasn’t until years later, I got my first gig off of Craigslist. If you live in an urban center, start by looking up a Facebook group for “Brand Ambassadors of [Your City]”. Many opportunities are posted there and you can see what companies are hiring in your area and apply directly through their website. Marketing agencies will send out blast emails when work is available in your area. If you are free, you can apply, and if not you don’t have to do anything. The key is to respond quickly. You can expect to make $15-$20/hr.

What you need: A headshot, additional photo and resume.

Participate in Medical Studies

Adventurous minded folks can contact the psychology department in their school and see if they have any paid medical studies. Some studies are easier than others, while some may have some special prerequisites. However, the money can be good and the work is fairly easy. When I was in graduate school, I took part in a medical study on psychology where I had to have special glasses on which showed various visuals. They were measuring my stats to see how I reacted. I made $30 for 15 minutes of my time. Some studies take more time but also pay more.

This is a unique opportunity for people to make quick, extra money, oftentimes in cash. However there can be some drawbacks as it is a medical study, so be sure to do your research and know what you are getting yourself into beforehand. Ask good questions!

What you need: An open mind and adventurous spirit.

Be a Web Tester

Another fun and easy way to make some extra money is to be a web tester. I first got exposed to being a web tester through Craigslist, then TaskRabbit. Essentially, I was asked to browse through a new website and offer my feedback on usability, readability, comprehension, etc. Oftentimes companies are looking for testers, in order to receive feedback and make necessary changes before the site goes public. Having an outside tester give impartial feedback is hugely important for companies looking to confirm that their site is doing what it should and conveying the desired message. In my experience, you can make between $15-$30/hr.

What you need: Experience using websites, internet access, and good communications skills.

Have you tried any of these? Do you have any other recommendations you’d add to the list?