Sources of extra money or additional income for students

There are many ways to earn extra income if you can’t afford to work full-time ‘normal’ hours. This article will show you what is available and what to avoid. I’ll use students’ time as an example, as a student’s schedule is usually the most ‘inconvenient’ for full-time work and also changes each semester. However, the opportunities described in this article may also apply to other demographic groups, for example single mothers.

While in college, students often think that it will be a challenge for them to support themselves financially. This is true only if you decide to avoid work and stop dealing with mounting debt until after you finish college. The truth is that it is not that difficult to get a job. However, getting a job requires determination and a bit of effort. You also have to decide how much work you want to do. There is a myth that if you work during college you will miss out on your social life. That is not true at all. I worked full time during my university years, while taking a very challenging course, and still had time to socialise.

During college, most students take jobs provided by the college itself, such as bar work. Those jobs are designed especially for students and allow you to choose hours that are flexible enough not to conflict with your schedule. However, you will find that college jobs do not pay very well. Most of the time you’ll get minimum wage, and considering you’ll be working just a few hours, you’ll pay national insurance and taxes after the first £5,035; this is not the best job option. Working flexible hours outside of college is not as difficult as you might think. There will be a number of big box stores around your university as well as restaurants and these businesses mainly employ students, for example Waterstones. You will find that the salary is likely to be much higher than within the university and flexible hours will be offered. However, be prepared to work on weekends.

Another way to work while studying full time is through agencies. Students often make the mistake of only signing up with one agency. Invest time in completing the applications provided by the agencies as soon as possible, since they will provide you with work for the rest of the year. Plus, over time you’ll be able to build your reputation with agencies, which in turn will allow you to get a better job over the summer break. There are two tricks to getting a good job with agencies: call them every three days and ask for better paying jobs and I’ve also found that sending small gifts like chocolates to the person who gets you the job is a good way to get better pay. jobs, since the person is more likely to call you when a job comes up. Most agencies have different branches that deal with different sectors such as restaurants, administration, retail, etc. Most of them will not require any experience, however, management work usually pays more. The best paying management jobs are at investment banks, but it’s unlikely you’ll be able to get those jobs during the semester, but try to get them during the summer break.

Another type of job you can get is in a nightclub. While these types of jobs won’t interfere with your educational schedule, they can be very hard on you physically, as you may not be back from work until 4 am. However, clubs often pay very well if you decide to work behind the bar, at the door, or even in the cloakroom. Plus, you’ll likely get tips, around £20-£30 a day. Students who work in a club while studying attend lectures during the day, sleep a little early at night, work overnight, and sleep the rest early in the morning. Homework should be done between lectures and early siesta, even or at the club, while it’s quiet.

If your task is time-consuming, why not try working the security desk at night? You can sleep early at night after lectures and do all of your work during night shifts, which are usually from 12 am to 7 am. I’ve found that this type of work offers the quietest environment, allowing you to focus. Also, because you only sleep part of it, it’s easier to adjust to them than club jobs. If a security job is for you, make sure you sign up with different agencies as soon as possible, as you will likely have a lot of competition.

Summer jobs are an ideal opportunity to pay off any debt you’ve racked up over the year (within reason). It’s best to get a job related to your course (if you want to pursue a career related to the course afterwards), but gaining experience related to the course may not pay you very well or even at all. Therefore, you may also need to get a second job in the evenings to generate enough income. It will be extremely difficult for you physically to get jobs in clubs or security if you also work during the day. However, she tries to get a job as a waitress. Again, a large number of agencies specialize in this industry, so sign up with as many as possible. Also, there may be work available in the pubs behind the bar. Try these though, your people skills will be put to the test as you face some serious competition for pub jobs. An easier job, but not as well paid, is working at hotel reception desks. The work is also divided into shifts, so you will be able to work the evening shift.

If you are good at writing and have a good academic record, you can also work for different assignment websites, for example http://www.coursework4you.co.uk. This company will provide you with a list of papers to research and write, detailing the deadline, number of words, topic, and price. If you are satisfied with all the requirements, you agree to write the work and once you finish they will send you the agreed amount. I used to work for them during my university years earning £500-£700 a week part time. However, keep in mind that the quality of the work you need to produce is high. The good thing is that you earn as much as you want, on your own time, writing about the topics you feel comfortable with. Also, the staff is really friendly and trustworthy, so if you have any questions, they will always help you, unlike many other companies.

If you just want a good experience, which is not necessarily related to your future career but pays well, get an internship at an investment bank. Competition is tough for these internships, and you’ll need to apply about eight months before you start. However, if you can’t get an internship job at the bank, try tempting him. There are a number of agencies that specialize in finding temporary jobs only within investment banks, and previous experience is not always required. Other industries, although not as well paid, offer internships, such as insurance companies and financial services companies, for example, Bloomberg. You’ll need to find out if a temporary job with a large organization will pay you better than getting an internship. An internship is likely to give you a better experience, while a temporary hire may pay you more, so which one you choose will depend on your priorities. Summer jobs are also available abroad, mainly in ski resorts (most of them are open during the summer). If you decide to opt for this type of work, pay attention to the details of the accommodation. Most of the work will offer you cheap self-catering accommodation to go with work; if not, you’ll need to do some research. Other things to consider are taxes and work permit requirements in foreign countries. If you get work through an agency, they will likely figure it out for you.

There are certain jobs you should avoid. Try to avoid getting a job through internet schemes like filling out surveys. The worst ones are the ones that require you to invest your own money first, don’t do that. If you are tempted to enter this type of work, read the reviews about this company and the product first. There are some legitimate businesses on the Internet, but most will require you to submit your CV, cover letter, and education certificates before you can begin work. For online businesses you will have to register as self-employed and declare your earnings when the Treasury sends you the self-assessment form. This, in turn, means that you may have to pay all taxes in one lump sum, so you’ll need to save.

Finally, remember that you can only get a positive account balance if you’re not overspending. If you expect to pay taxes at a certain time during the year, put the money you earn into a high-interest savings account or a cash ISA. Pay off your most expensive credit and store cards first, or transfer balances to 0% balance transfer credit cards.

Before you leave summer jobs, be sure to get references from your bosses. Large organizations only provide standard references, indicating when he started and stopped working and how many sick days he has taken. Therefore, you must request a personal reference from your boss. Get as many references as possible and keep them in a safe place; you will need them in the future.

References

Integrity Reviews 2006, “Realistic Reviews of Internet Business Opportunities” [Available from]: http://www.integrityreviews.com/?gclid=CJGKoOn4vYgCFQlTVAodhXurKw (Consulted on: 10/11/06)

Don’t be scammed 2006, “Don’t be scammed” [Available from]: http://www.dont-get-scammed.com/g1?gclid=CL7oidGDvogCFSdtVAodkV_rMA (Accessed on: 10/11/06)

Student Jobs 2006, “UK Student Aid” [Available from]: http://www.student-part-time-jobs.com/forum/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=651 (Accessed on: 11/10/06)

Money Extra 2006, “Expert financial advice and planning for pensions, investments and taxes” [Available from]: [http://www.moneyextra.com/advice/] (Consulted on: 10/11/06)