In this week’s Uni Life Unlocked article, we will help students seeking lucrative side job options that not only contribute to their financial well-being but also enhance their skill sets. In the dynamic landscape of higher education, students often find themselves navigating the challenging terrain of financial constraints.

Embarking on a side job during your academic journey is not just about earning extra cash; it's a chance to develop practical skills, build a professional network, and gain insights into industries that align with your academic pursuits. So, whether you're looking to alleviate the burden of student loans, save for future endeavours, or simply gain hands-on experience, this guide will illuminate the path to unlocking a world of side job possibilities for the enterprising student.  

*If you are an international student don’t worry about not knowing Dutch. Many jobs in your city such as restaurants, clothing stores and supermarkets do not require knowledge of Dutch, English is enough. Plus, the schedule is very flexible, so perfect for student life. However, if you are looking for different options, you can consult the Recruit a Student website. 

Recruit a Student

One of the best student-focused job agency is Recruit a Student. They have different offices across the Netherlands and Belgium.

What is their goal? To provide students with the opportunity to experiment. They can help you find out what your interests are and what you are good at. And, of course, what you don't want to do. Trying and failing. Observing and learning. You learn to know yourself better when you work in different companies and sectors. This will assist you in deciding what you want to pursue after finishing your studies. Choosing this system can give you several benefits: you get paid every week, you can gain relevant experience (that never hurts your CV), you can work flexibly (they often offer part-time jobs), and you have no obligations. Recruit a Student's mission is to offer students a customized solution based on their talents and qualities.

So how do I apply? You can easily sign up on their website, where you’ll upload your personal details and your CV. After that, you’ll receive an e-mail, and your journey in the work world will start. We all know that the most interesting part is knowing how much you will earn. Before you begin work, you will agree on a gross hourly wage with the client. This is in accordance with the client's collective bargaining agreement. If you work for Recruit a Student, your salary will be paid weekly. Payments are made on Wednesday afternoon, so you will have your salary in your bank account on Thursday or Friday. For any questions, you can go to their office located in Breda, Ginnekenweg 32.  

The system provides different vacancies all around the Netherlands; we're going to show you one of them. 

Freelance Work

If you prefer to work online, freelance work can be perfect for you. You may do this by working part-time or starting your own business. Online platforms enable freelancers to begin work instantly in the hospitality business, logistics, care, or delivery services. Many students find work through online job boards. These provide a way to earn money when it is convenient for you. The internet platform serves as a go-between for you and the clients. Before you sign up, make sure you understand how the site operates and what its terms and conditions are. Working with a platform is a flexible way to make money, making it easier to combine study and work. You get to choose when and what you want to work on. You do so as an independent entrepreneur, not as an employee. As a platform worker, you are paid on an hourly basis. You may be able to negotiate this cost yourself in some circumstances. You are typically compensated by the platform rather than the clients. The platform will send the client an invoice and handle the administrative side of things. Make sure you understand what the platform does and what you must do. There are several platforms on which you can choose to work as a freelancer: 

• Guru: It’s a platform where employers and freelancers can work together.  

How does it work? First of all, you have to sign up (it’s free), then describe the services you offer, showcase your portfolios, and include other details that will make your profile stand out from the crowd. It’s easier to attract potential employers by creating a strong profile, which boosts your chances of getting hired. The more keyword-rich services and portfolios you have, the better. 

 Don’t worry about not finding the right job; Guru will help you identify and apply for jobs that match your skills and services. To manage the work, you can even build a team and assign roles to each individual. One of the best options on the website is “AutoPay” to ensure that you will receive automatic payments after completing work for your freelance jobs online. 

• Upwork: There are different ways to earn thanks to this platform. The first step to take is the same as on the previous platform: create a profile. Then you’ll search for jobs. Of course, you have to submit a proposal, setting your rate and telling clients why you’re the right person for the job! If the client likes your proposal, they’ll send you a contract to begin working. You'll get paid once the client accepts your work, and they can leave you feedback. There are different sectors where you can show off your talent; you can find some in the picture below. 

• Fiverr: With this platform  you can work in any working environment. There are several categories: writing / translation, digital marketing, video /animation, business, photography and much more. Feedback and reputation are essential to the Fiverr marketplace. So try to always do a good job so that you receive positive feedback from those who bought your service. 

In conclusion, the myriad side job options available for students present a valuable opportunity for personal and professional growth. From freelance gigs and part-time positions to online platforms, the world of side jobs offers a diverse array of choices to cater to individual preferences and goals. Students can harness these opportunities to not only supplement their income but also build a robust foundation for their future careers. 

Keen to explore the previous episodes and articles of the UniLife Unlocked concept? Then Check them out below ⬇️

To Watch:

Episode 1 - Cost Friendly Grocery Shopping

Episode 2 - Meal Planning

Episode 3 - Finding Student Accommodation Hacks

Episode 4 - Campus Snack Hacks

To Read:

Cracking the University Code: Your Key to Success with Uni Life Unlocked

Meal Planning for Students: A Guide to Healthy and Budget-Friendly Eating

Keys To Campus Comfort: Unlock Tips & Tricks to Finding Your Student Home