College-going teens who want to earn money while studying can explore part-time jobs like product testing, social media management, and photography. Besides providing an income, these side hustles help students develop entrepreneurial skills and become independent. That said, one must choose a business idea wisely. The best business ideas for college students are those that align with their interests and skills while also being manageable alongside school and other commitments.
Product testing
Every now and then, businesses design new products to meet their customers’ demands. But before officially launching them in the market, they release them to a small group of customers for testing. Product testers and reviewers use the new product for a while and then provide detailed and accurate feedback to the business.
College-going students looking to earn money can find sites or organizations that need testers. Depending on the business, one may need to test products like shoes, cosmetics, gadgets, or even websites or games. Product testing is a suitable teen entrepreneurship idea for those with strong analytical abilities and communication skills.
Social media management
In this digital world, social media management can be a profitable venture for teenagers looking to start earning. Businesses have social media accounts on different platforms. As a social media manager, one would help the business update these accounts from time to time, upload posts, and engage with followers. Budding teen entrepreneurs with a basic understanding of social media platforms and content creation can consider working part-time in this field. They can learn the trade over time and pick this as their startup idea after college.
Pet care services
Pet parents often find it difficult to get someone to look after their furry friend when they are not around. So, caring for pets or becoming a pet sitter can be a great part-time business opportunity for college students. One can offer their services to pet parents who are on vacation or away from home a few days a week for work. Some may also need a pet sitter to walk their dog every day.
Reliability, trustworthiness, time management, and passion for animals are important traits to get by as a pet sitter. The job is suitable for students who have these traits and can spare some time from their college schedule.
Virtual assistant
Companies and business professionals often need assistants to help them schedule appointments, write and respond to emails, and handle other administrative tasks. Since a virtual assistant can be a temporary or part-time requirement, it is a great entrepreneurship idea for young adults in college. Students who have good communication skills and can manage time well can consider this opportunity.
Photography
College teens who click good photos can leverage their photography skills to earn money. One can capture quality images of nature, wildlife sightings, food, people, and travel destinations and sell them to businesses. Many organizations need such stock images for their websites and pay a fee in exchange for them. One can also photograph weddings, birthday parties, bar mitzvahs, or corporate events for different clients. Since photos can be clicked with a decent smartphone or entry-level camera, it is a suitable low-investment business idea for college students.
Handmade crafts business
Many young students love making handmade crafts, such as handmade jewelry, personalized gifts, home decor, tote bags, custom t-shirts, and crochet items. Someone who is determined to monetize this skill can consider starting a handmade crafts business. All one has to do is create a few samples and sell them at local stores or boutiques. The products can also be sold online by taking orders on social media or signing up with dedicated marketplaces. Homemade crafts can be a profitable business idea for 18-year-olds who want to hone their creativity and artistic skills and learn customer service, marketing, and financial management.
Translation services
College students fluent in more than one language can offer to translate emails, transcripts, and other documents from one language to the other. They can also translate audio from live events and conversations. With globalization, the demand for translation services is increasing. Companies need people who can quickly translate when conversing with clients overseas while avoiding loss of information.
Transcription services
Transcription requires converting spoken words or audio into written format. It is an ideal opportunity for students looking to start their own business without substantial investments. All one requires is good-quality earphones and a computer. Transcription services allow individuals to work from dormitories, coffee shops, or anywhere else on their own schedule.
Bookkeeping
Many small-scale businesses prefer outsourcing their bookkeeping to freelancers and more affordable agencies. Students who are great with numbers and have some understanding of accounts can check whether any small business neighborhood could benefit from their services. A part-time bookkeeping job will help students fill their pockets while taking some workload off the businesses. Setting up a simple website can help college teens offer their services to companies not located close to home.
