Story by Stephanie Cobb
With the closure of nonessential businesses in the state of Florida, many students’ internship and part-time employment plans have been canceled or put on hold. However, if you’re in need of cash, there are many ways to make money while still social distancing. Keep reading for some ideas on how to bring in extra cash and stay safe in the process.
- Apply for Scholarships
Many students now have more free time on their hands than usual. One way to utilize this time is by applying to scholarships for the upcoming academic year. The U.S. Department of Labor maintains an extensive database of local, national, and international scholarships to help students fund their education, although there are countless other scholarship search engines available online. Completing scholarship applications can be a time-consuming process, but also an incredibly rewarding one, and the more scholarships you apply to, the better your odds of receiving financial assistance.
- Sell Your Old Stuff
Online resale sites like eBay, Poshmark, Depop, and Craigslist provide opportunities to earn money by selling your old things. Consider raiding your home for old clothes, electronics, and furniture and listing them on the web if you’re in need of cash. Be sure to properly disinfect the items before sending them out.
- Tutor Students Remotely
If you’re an expert in European history, French, or even just fifth grade math, and believe that you are good at explaining concepts to others, consider putting your skills to use by working as a tutor. Many parents and students are willing to pay for knowledgeable individuals’ expertise, especially in the era of remote learning. You can advertise your services through social media to attract interested tutees. This is a great way to make money while also helping others!
- Sell Art Online
Whether you’re an artistic pro or a complete amateur, there’s no better time to hone your creativity than now. The quarantine could represent an opportunity to learn a new skill, such as painting, digital art, or sculpting. While these activities are fulfilling on their own, you also have the option to sell your artwork on websites like Etsy or Redbubble. Take advantage of the free art tutorials available on Youtube to help you produce your own one-of-a-kind art.
- Start a Blog
With the rise of websites like WordPress, Wix, and Weebly, it’s easier than ever to start your own blog for free. A blog is a great way to share your ideas, expertise, and writing skills with an audience, and with programs like Google Adsense, you can earn money as your readership increases. Whether your interests lie in architecture, gardening, or gaming, there’s a market out there for any type of blog, especially as Americans are consuming online media more than ever.
While it can be frustrating when the world feels like it’s on pause, remember that this situation is not permanent and you will be back to campus or the workplace eventually. In the meantime, stay healthy and take care of yourself.
UF PRISM 