HOW STUDENTS ARE EARNING WHILE STUDYING

Gone are the days when students only focused on classes and waited until graduation to start working. Today many students are turning to side hustles, small jobs or businesses that they run while studying, to earn money, gain experience and explore their passions.

“I started selling eggs when I was in my second year at campus; later as time went by; I added sausages in my business. Managing my small business at first was not an easy task for me but I had to dedicate myself to eat and create time, I operated in the evenings after classes. This business enabled me purchase foodstuffs and sometimes buy some personal stu ffs.” Says Bonface Siso, a student from Maseno University.

From online tutoring and content creation to baking, photography and reselling clothes, students are looking for ways to earn extra income.

“I started selling thrifted clothes on Instagram during the pandemic,” says Anita K, a 21-year-old Kenyatta university student.”Now I make enough to cover my school fees and even help at home.”

The rise of digital platforms TikTok, Instagram and YouTube have made it easier than ever to start small businesses. Some students even manage to turn their side hustle into a full-time career after graduation. But balancing work and school is not always easy.

“Time management is the hardest part,” says Brian M, who freelances as a graphic designer. “There are days I stay up late finishing both client work and assignments.”

Universities have noticed the trend. Some schools now offer workshops on entrepreneurship, digital marketing and personal finance to help student entrepreneurs grow their ideas without falling behind in class.

While side hustles bring in extra money, they also teach valuable life skills like discipline, customer service and problem-solving that students say they don’t always learn in the class. Experts say the key is balance.

“Side hustles can be a great way to learn,” Says career coach Lilian Owino.” “But students must be careful not to let them affect their grades or health.”

Whether it’s to pay bills, build a brand or chase a dream, one thing is clear, today’s students are not waiting for opportunities they are creating them.

Ends…

BY: Faraly Mutethya.

John

The author is an experienced radio journalist and media manager.