The Pros and Cons of Gig Work among College Students

Studies show that around 38% of students who leave college cite financial pressure as a reason for not completing their degree. While many students want to work to support themselves through school, traditional jobs often don’t offer the flexibility they need to earn money while still focusing on their studies.

Gig work offers that kind of flexibility—you can earn as much as you’re willing to work for, without the commitment of a formal part-time job. While the benefits of gig work are appealing, such as the ability to set your own hours, there are also challenges that come with it. Whether you can make gig work really work for you depends on your needs and goals.

How Well Do You Know Gig Work?

Gig work, or the gig economy, refers to flexible, short-term jobs where people work on individual tasks, or “gigs,” rather than holding a traditional, long-term job. This type of work is often done through apps or online platforms, allowing workers to choose jobs that fit their schedules. Whether it’s delivering food, doing odd jobs, or freelancing online, gig work enables people to earn money based on the tasks they complete without committing to a full-time job.

Is gig work right for you? There are pros and cons. Let's get into it.

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Advantages of Gig Work to College Students

Schedule Flexibility

One of the biggest advantages of gig work is the ability to set your own schedule. For college students, schedule flexibility is especially important. Between attending classes, studying, and participating in extracurricular activities, students need jobs that won’t interfere with their academic responsibilities. Gig work allows students to pick up jobs during breaks or weekends, fitting their work around their study schedule—rather than the other way around. This freedom to earn when it's convenient makes gig work an appealing option for students who need extra income, but can't commit to a rigid job.

Variety of Opportunities

The gig economy offers a broad range of opportunities, from driving and delivery services to online freelance tasks like writing, graphic design, and tutoring. This diversity of roles means that almost anyone can find work that suits their skills and interests. Plus, the variety makes it easier for gig workers to avoid burnout, as they can switch between different types of work based on what they feel most comfortable doing. The ability to find gigs that match their interests makes gig work more than just a way to earn extra cash—it provides invaluable experience for their future careers.

Skill Enhancement

Gig work doesn’t just offer flexibility and variety; it also helps workers develop valuable skills. Freelancers and gig workers often gain experience in problem-solving, communication, and time management, which are crucial in any job. For college students, gig work can enhance their resumes by providing hands-on experience in a range of industries. Freelancers can build a portfolio of work, which is essential for students entering creative industries like design, writing, or marketing. 

Practical experience interacting with clients and independently managing workloads also helps students develop advanced soft skills that are highly-desirable in nearly any role — offering a competitive edge in the job market.

Quick Cash

One of the most practical advantages of gig work is the ability to earn money quickly. Most gig jobs offer immediate or weekly payment, which is a major benefit for students who need cash fast. Whether it’s for textbooks, rent, or groceries, having access to quick payouts makes gig work an attractive option for those who may not want to wait for bi-weekly paychecks, as is common with traditional jobs.

Building Professional Relationships

Networking is another valuable advantage of gig work. Gig workers have the opportunity to interact with a wide variety of clients, freelancers, and industry professionals. These interactions can lead to new job opportunities, internships, or mentorships. Building professional relationships early can be a game-changer for students. Gig work allows them to connect with professionals in their field of interest, creating valuable networking opportunities that can lead to internships or job offers.

Exposure to Various Industries

For college students still figuring out their career paths, exposure to as many career opportunities as possible is invaluable. The ability to experiment with different industries gives students a broader perspective on what they might want to do after graduation, making them more adaptable and well-rounded as they enter the workforce.

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Downsides of Gig Work for College Students

Inconsistent Income

One of the major downsides of gig work is the unpredictability of income. Unlike a regular job with a steady paycheck, gig work can fluctuate from week to week. This inconsistency makes it difficult to plan finances and reliably cover essential expenses like rent, tuition, or groceries. While some weeks might bring in decent money, other weeks could be slow, causing financial uncertainty.

While gig work may come with unpredictable pay, it presents a valuable opportunity for students to learn budgeting early in life. Managing variable income teaches essential financial skills, like prioritizing expenses and planning ahead for academic expenses, food, and other necessities. Developing these budgeting habits early can help students build a strong foundation for financial stability in the future.

Lack of Benefits

Gig workers are considered independent contractors, meaning they don’t receive traditional employment benefits like health insurance, paid time off, or retirement plans. The absence of these benefits can be challenging, especially for those who require medical coverage or time off for personal reasons. Without access to benefits like health insurance, students may have to pay out of pocket for medical expenses or struggle to start saving early for retirement. 

Challenges With Time Management

While the flexibility of gig work is appealing, it can also create challenges with time management. Without set work hours, it's easy to let gig work take priority over academic responsibilities. Poor time management may result in falling behind on schoolwork, leading to decreased academic performance. Developing strong organizational skills becomes essential to avoid falling behind.

Lack of Job Security

Gig work doesn’t offer the same level of job security as traditional employment. Gigs come and go, and platforms may change policies or fees that impact earnings. This lack of stability can make it difficult to plan for the future or rely on gig work as a long-term income source.

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Online Job Opportunities for Students to Make Money

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Online jobs are a key part of the gig economy that many college students find appealing. These jobs don’t require in-person attendance, allowing students to work comfortably from their dorms or apartments on their own schedules. Here are a few popular online gig options:

• Freelance Writing and Editing: Platforms like Upwork and Fiverr offer opportunities for students to provide writing and editing services, such as essay writing or proofreading. These gigs allow students to use their writing skills to earn money while maintaining flexibility.
• Online Tutoring: Companies like Chegg Tutors and Tutor.com provide students with the chance to tutor others, whether helping their peers or younger students in various subjects. This option allows students to share their knowledge and earn money from home.
• Virtual Assistant: Many businesses now hire virtual assistants for tasks such as back-office support, social media management, and customer service. This role is ideal for students who want to gain practical experience while working remotely.

Survey Taking and Market Research: Websites like Swagbucks and Survey Junkie let users earn money by participating in surveys and market research. This option requires minimal time and effort, making it a convenient way to earn extra cash.

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Let’s Simplify Your Job Search!

“Opportunities don't happen, you create them." – Chris Grosser.

Swob makes that first step toward finding the right job easier by connecting you with opportunities that fit your skills and needs.

Whether you're looking for gig work or full-time employment, Swob is designed to simplify your search and get you hired fast. With Swob, you can easily find opportunities that match your skills and needs without the hassle of constantly adjusting your resume.

If you need flexibility, or are ready for a full-time role, Swob offers a straightforward, efficient way to get there. Sign up today and make your job search easier!

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